PTSD Triggers: Definitions, Examples, and Treatment
It can happen on a perfectly normal day. Someone walks around outside when, suddenly, they hear a car backfire. The sound, like other PTSD triggers, stirs up past feelings and intrusive memories of a traumatic event. In the next moments, that person plunges into a state of anxiety or panic.
PTSD triggers such as these can be difficult to predict. As a result, someone may not want to engage in life around them, preferring to avoid the risk of encountering a trigger. However, it is important to recognize that PTSD and its symptoms can be managed. Even if triggering events can’t always be predicted, there are still many ways to prepare for them.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that may emerge after someone experiences a traumatic incident. The majority of people undergo a traumatic event at some point in their lives, but only a few will live with long-lasting effects of it.
Sexual assault, car accidents, childhood abuse, and being threatened with a weapon are all examples of traumatic events that could lead to PTSD. Roughly one third of individuals who live through experiences such as these will develop PTSD afterward, and those who do must learn to identify and manage their PTSD triggers.
Why some people develop PTSD while others do not isn’t understood in its entirety. However, research suggests a number of factors could be responsible, including genetics and pre-existing mental health conditions.
When someone has PTSD, it’s as though their body did not fully or correctly process the traumatic event. They can become stuck in the physical response known as “fight or flight,” with any reminders of the incident causing adrenaline spikes and other adverse symptoms.
For example, PTSD symptoms may also include:
When these symptoms persist well after the traumatic incident has ended, someone may be experiencing PTSD.
Recent data suggests that at least one in 10 veterans will be diagnosed with PTSD. This is a substantially higher number than those seen in civilians, but there are clear reasons as to why.
Specifically, experiences specific to veterans, such as combat exposure, training accidents, and military sexual trauma, contribute to their higher rates of PTSD. In addition, these distinct challenges can result in unique PTSD triggers.
When traumatic events occur, the brain processes it as best as it can. However, this can include attaching certain details to the memory in a way that makes it difficult to associate them with anything else.
Because of this, certain stimuli can suddenly remind someone with PTSD of their trauma memories. More than just thinking about the past, though, they may experience full panic attacks and other physical symptoms. These events are known as PTSD triggers.
Different types of triggers can include:
Due to the subtle or mundane natures of some PTSD triggers, it can be challenging for someone to identify the exact situations that aggravate their symptoms. Similarly, the effect they may have on someone often varies between individuals. Some people respond with anxiety or panic, while others become aggressive or defensive.
The risk of encountering PTSD triggers does not mean someone can’t create safety plans ahead of time. Furthermore, there are numerous coping strategies someone can utilize to help process their emotions when triggers cannot be avoided.
Many techniques to minimize the impact of PTSD triggers exist. Someone may try:
It is crucial to acknowledge the possibility of running into PTSD triggers even if they are not expected. Planning ahead and thinking of healthy coping mechanisms allows someone to handle these experiences without accidentally harming themselves or others.
Seeking PTSD treatment does not mean someone is weak. In fact, knowing when to ask for help is one of the strongest traits someone can have. It’s wise to utilize the tools around you to maximize your recovery, not only for your own sake, but for your family, friends, and community as well.
The treatment programs available at Heroes’ Mile are designed to help veterans with substance abuse disorders. This matters in the context of PTSD treatment because almost half of individuals with PTSD meet the criteria for substance use disorder as well. It is important to seek treatment for both to have the best chance of recovering in full.
Heroes’ Mile offers a residential rehab program as well as an intensive outpatient program. Residential care is often best for people with severe addiction or whose home environments aren’t conducive to recovery. An outpatient program may work better for those with less severe symptoms or calm, supportive home lives.
Both programs consist of numerous evidence-based treatment options and can be tailored to suit any individual’s unique needs. Moreover, many of these treatment options can help someone learn to manage PTSD triggers.
Some of our therapeutic activities include:
These treatment options teach crucial coping skills that help people minimize the impact of addiction symptoms and PTSD triggers on their everyday lives.
Trauma-informed care in behavioral health services can be difficult to find on the level that veterans need. However, Heroes’ Mile removes the need for questions like, “Will I be understood?” or “Can they really relate to me?”
Heroes’ Mile is an addiction rehab center with treatment programs developed for veterans by veterans. By providing a safe, healing space exclusively for veterans, we give people the chance to connect with others who know what they’re going through. Shared experiences, even when similar trauma, forge deep bonds that can support you throughout your recovery journey.
If you’re ready to seek PTSD treatment and improve your mental health, contact Heroes’ Mile. You can call our admissions team at 888-838-6692 or submit a confidential contact form. With our flexible, trauma-informed care, we can help you manage PTSD triggers and recover from substance abuse.