Have you ever woken up from a nightmare, with triggers of fear racing through your mind and emotions swirling? Just like those unsettling dreams, triggers can sneak up on us, dragging us back to moments of pain we thought were behind us.
In this post, we’ll explore the similarities between triggers and nightmares, discovering how both can catch us off guard and evoke strong emotions, helping us regain control and move toward inner peace.
Triggers of Fear in My Vivid Nightmare
I still vividly remember a nightmare that perfectly captures the overwhelming feeling.
I was running for my life when I spotted my kitchen door. Hope surged as I flung it open and saw my dog, Jackie. I picked him up, but then something shocking happened—Jackie morphed into the very person I wanted to escape. My heart pounded in my chest, and a wave of panic washed over me. I felt completely frozen, unable to move or even breathe.
That was the moment just before I woke up. As I blinked awake, relief washed over me. I glanced at my alarm clock and touched my blanket, realizing, “Hey, it’s just a dream!” The intense emotions began to fade, leaving behind a sense of calm.
I was a teenager then, and honestly, that nightmare still lingers as one of the worst I’ve experienced. (In hindsight, like many thrill-seeking teenagers, I was exposed to a lot of horror movies and ghost stories back then.)
And, what exactly are triggers?
What Are Triggers?
Triggers are reminders of past trauma that can provoke intense emotional reactions. They can be anything from a smell, a sound, or even a place that brings back memories you’d rather forget. Understanding triggers is a crucial step in managing overwhelming feelings and finding inner peace.
What Do Nightmares and Triggers Have in Common?
When we’re triggered, it can feel just like that nightmare. Past hurts and traumas can flood our bodies with emotions, making us feel as if the threat is real and happening right now.
Both are related to what we’ve been exposed to
Nightmares often stem from experiences we’ve had, whether they’re traumatic or simply intense. Similarly, triggers are tied to past events and memories. When we experience something distressing, our brains can create associations that linger long after the event itself. For instance, a traumatic event might lead to recurring nightmares or specific triggers that bring back those same feelings of fear and helplessness.
Both catch us off guard most of the time
Just as a nightmare can wake you from a deep sleep, triggers can hit you unexpectedly during your daily life. You might be enjoying a peaceful moment when a sudden reminder of a past trauma jolts you back into distress. This surprise element can make both nightmares and triggers feel particularly disorienting, often leaving you feeling vulnerable and exposed.
Both are not real life
Though they can feel incredibly intense, nightmares are ultimately just dreams, and triggers are reminders of past experiences that can create a false sense of danger. When you’re caught in a triggered state, it’s easy to forget that you are not actually in the same situation you once were. This can lead to overwhelming feelings of panic or anxiety, even though you’re in a safe environment. Recognizing that these feelings are tied to memories rather than present threats is a vital part of regaining control over your emotional responses.
Both can lead to a cycle of fear
Just like a nightmare can leave you feeling shaken for the rest of the day, triggers can create a cycle where one emotional response leads to another. You might experience a trigger, feel intense emotions, and then worry about when the next trigger will occur, creating a loop of anxiety. Understanding this cycle can help you break free and begin to manage your reactions.
What Can Trigger Your Trauma?
- Sounds: Hearing certain sounds or music associated with your trauma can take you back to those painful moments.
- People: Seeing someone related to the trauma or who has a certain physical trait can trigger strong emotional responses.
- Thoughts: Certain thoughts or memories can make your brain bring you back to a trauma, often unwillingly.
- Places: The locations where the trauma occurred can serve as powerful triggers, as can similar places that evoke those memories.
- Media: A news report, a particular movie, or a TV series can show a scene similar to your trauma, reigniting those feelings.
- Feelings: Sometimes, a particular emotion—like sadness or physical pain—can trigger memories of past trauma.
- Smell: Our sense of smell strongly ties to our memories, so certain scents can trigger traumatic memories.
- Situations: If you find yourself in a situation similar to or reminiscent of your trauma, it can act as a trigger.
Releasing the Past by Understanding Triggers
Here’s the truth: Triggers are just memories, harmless recordings of something that once was. In those tough moments, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself of what you need to hear. Try these affirmations:
- I am safe.
- I am worthy.
- I have control of my life.
Triggers can also indicate areas in your life that may require healing or exploration. Acknowledging these signals is the first step toward addressing underlying issues and working through them with compassion and care. We all have our battles, and being aware of the truth about triggers is key to releasing ourselves from the past.
Summary
Triggers may sneak up on you when you least expect it, but understanding them can empower you to take control. By acknowledging your triggers and working through them, you can create a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
If you or someone you know is battling unresolved trauma, I invite you to reach out. Professional support can make a world of difference in understanding and taming those triggers.
You are also welcome to contact me if I can support you as you journey forward.