"5 Tips for Managing and Overcoming Triggers in Daily Life"

This week I had an intense emotional response aka RAGE. I haven’t had one this extreme in a while. I felt myself spiraling. I couldn’t think straight. I don’t like me when I’m angry. I’ll take it too far with a Cheshire grin. In my head the devil hides when I'm enraged. Luckily I had the tools necessary to regain my composure, and I figured I’d use this as a teaching tool.

Here are a few strategies that can help you work through your intense emotional responses when you feel triggered!! Please note THESE CAN BE APPLIED IN ANY ORDER.

Identify the trigger: Take the time to understand what specifically triggers you and be mindful of when it occurs.

              For me it was having someone lie on me. When someone lies on you it renders you with a powerless feeling like things are out of your control. To lie on my name, when everything I do for others comes with pure intentions is unsettling. I don’t do anything if it is not from a genuine place. So, to experience feelings of anger when someone lies on you is a valid emotion. To feel as though my reputation or character is being unfairly attacked truly upset me, because I actually value honesty and integrity in my relationships.

Practice relaxation techniques: These techniques can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress when triggered.

              My relaxation techniques include deep breathing, meditation, high frequency music and the gym.

Reach out for support:

I immediately call my partner, parents or big brother! When I become triggered I actually scare myself so I seek someone I know can immediately get to me and/or calm me down.

If you feel like you are a harm to yourself or others, please seek emergency medical care.

Engage in self-care: Do some things to take care of yourself!

Engaging in activities that bring you joy, and relaxation can be an amazing coping skill. For myself an encouraging conversation while we get a great workout in does a lot for me. I also enjoy a massage, intentional cleansing shower, and yoga as well.

Develop a coping plan: Create a plan for how you will respond when triggered.

My immediate plan always includes a positive self-talk. I acknowledge what triggered me and all the reasons why it is beneath me to engage in the negativity. If I still feel my anger rising I start to move through these strategies in whatever order I see fit for the incident.

My number one rule for when I am triggered is to immediately detach or take a break from the situation. I have to "blackout" the incident until my emotions are no longer raw. Detachment is a skill I had to teach myself for many reasons. When my emotions are raw I know my judgement is clouded. I'll be ready to stand on business, which could honestly cost me a six-figure one. Having a plan in place can help you navigate the trigger more effectively.

Remember, coping with triggers takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and give yourself grace as you work through your challenges.

Safe Coping My Friends,

-Taneshia 😘