When we think of the trigger of a weapon, we see that it is the part of the weapon that causes it to make the sound of an explosion, do harm to someone, and remind us to take cover because our safety may be in jeopardy.
With trauma, a trigger has a very similar role. It may be a smell, a sound, a picture, or even a song. But whatever it is, it reminds us that our safety has been and is being compromised.
When a child has survived trauma, the triggers may seem endless at first. This can also apply to an adult who is beginning their healing journey. The panicky feeling from a trigger can leave someone thinking they are unsafe, unable to control their emotions. When memories and flashbacks are triggered, is it very important for a safe person to be there for the child, to hold them, to reassure their safety, and to show them how strong they have become.
The older I get, and the more I set healthy boundaries in my life, the less and less triggers affect me. The same can be said for a child. When a child knows they are safe, and this safety plays a consistent role in their life, triggers and their severity and influence decrease. This takes the help of a skilled therapist who has training in trauma therapy. But healing is reachable, especially if there is stability in the child’s life