What Does It Mean To Be ‘Triggered’ And How Do We Resolve Personal Trauma



Being "triggered" refers to experiencing an intense emotional or physical reaction, often linked to past trauma, when exposed to certain stimuli. These stimuli, known as "triggers," can vary widely and may include specific sounds, smells, places, or even words that remind a person of their previous painful experiences. 

When someone is triggered, their mind and body react as if they are re-experiencing that trauma, even if they are not consciously aware of the connection. This can manifest as anxiety, panic attacks, anger, or other intense emotional responses.


How Triggers Develop

When someone experiences trauma, their brain sometimes stores the memory of the event in an altered way, especially if it wasn't properly processed at the time. The brain remains hyper-vigilant, scanning the environment for any sign of danger that resembles a traumatic event.

This leads to seemingly innocuous stimuli becoming triggers, bringing back the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations of the original trauma. Over time, this can make people feel trapped in a cycle where they continually react to the past rather than the present. 


The Connection to Hypnoanalysis

Hypnoanalysis combines Hypnosis and Psychoanalysis, allowing individuals to process memories and emotions more easily.

Hypnoanalysis aims to resolve the underlying causes of trauma, offering more long-term relief from being triggered. It helps individuals understand why they react so strongly to certain stimuli and, more importantly, helps them break free from the cycle of emotional distress.

For example, a person with a fear of public speaking might find that their anxiety stems from a childhood experience of humiliation. Hypnoanalysis could help them reprocess that event, turning it from a traumatic memory into a neutral or even empowering one. This, in turn, reduces their anxiety and diminishes their reaction to triggers related to public speaking.

Ultimately, by acknowledging and working through the past, individuals can free themselves from the emotional reactions holding them back. This leads to a more peaceful and fulfilling life, unburdened by the weight of old trauma.

Find out more and book a free initial consultation at www.ketteringhypnotherapy.com or call David directly at 01536 350328

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