Recognize Potential PTSD Triggers

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, affects about 8 million Americans every year. While many people deal with this disorder, still more people have been through some sort of trauma. Not everyone who experiences a trauma will have PTSD, but everyone can learn about it. The more information we have about its symptoms, potential triggers, and treatments, the easier it will be for those dealing with PTSD.

Getting therapy for PTSD can feel like yet another minefield, filled with trial and error. That’s why at Alina Lodge, our approach considers the whole person, and our treatment plans are individualized. We allow our students to take their time to find what gives them the best path towards healing while providing support through our trauma therapy program. If you or a loved one is dealing with symptoms of PTSD, substance use disorder, or another mental health disorder, it is crucial to seek professional treatment as soon as possible. Our Alina Lodge team has years of experience helping people heal from symptoms of PTSD, and we can help you or someone you care about.

What Are PTSD Triggers? How Can We Recognize Them?

Those who have post-traumatic stress disorder usually have certain triggers, including sights, smells, sounds, places, and people associated with a traumatic experience. For example, a war veteran may be triggered by the flashes and bangs of Fourth of July fireworks. These PTSD triggers can be commonplace as well. For example, a car crash survivor may be triggered when they see a certain make and model of car.

To identify PTSD triggers, consider:

• What was happening when the symptoms started? Recall sensory details as much as possible.
• How were you feeling at the time? Describe your feelings and their level of intensity.
• What thoughts or memories do you have that may trigger these feelings? Triggers can come from one’s own mind rather than externally.
• What patterns of behavior and symptoms do you notice? Look for patterns in what you are seeing, feeling, thinking, touching, and smelling when experiencing symptoms.

When someone with PTSD is triggered, they may react in ways that are uncharacteristic of themselves. This poses an extra challenge for friends and family of those who have PTSD, but we can find solutions together with time and persistence.

Alina Lodge’s Therapies and Programs

Trauma can leave scars. But the future is still to come, and we can work together to make a better future for you and your loved ones. With collaboration and expert help, trauma doesn’t have to hold anyone back from the future they deserve. At Alina Lodge, we have a team of specialists who can work with you and your family to pave the way towards recovery.

We offer the following therapies and programs for managing PTSD:

• Dual-diagnosis treatment programs for those dealing with substance use disorders along with other mental health diagnoses
• Mindfulness-based therapy to practice sensory exercises and breath-work that can help to self-soothe and center the body
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy to help align thoughts, behaviors, and feelings
• Anger management therapy for those who need a healthy outlet to express negative emotions
• Grief therapy to give those who have experienced a loss a safe and non-judgmental space to work through their feelings and mourn
• Men’s rehab and women’s rehab programs to give students support for gender-related trauma

Plot a Course for Healing with Alina Lodge

While the road behind you might be haunting you, there is still a road ahead, and with the help of others, you can put yourself in the driver’s seat again. Alina Lodge’s experienced and caring staff are here to draw the road map together with you. Find out more about our family-friendly services and programs today by completing our online form or calling 833.685.1700.