THE term ‘triggered’ refers to the experience of having an emotional reaction to a disturbing topic in the media or a social setting. However, there is a difference between being triggered and being uncomfortable.
For someone with a history of trauma, being around anything that reminds them of a traumatic experience can make them feel like they're experiencing the trauma all over again.
The word “triggered” is used more casually nowadays. At some point in the last few years, you’ve likely seen the phrase “trigger warning” or abbreviation “TW” online, or heard someone say they were “triggered” by something.
In this episode of Inside Shazmin’s Head, we talk about legitimate triggers, but also how we can find ourselves caught up in waves of popular ideas or ideals. Woke culture, social media use and a tendency to lean toward mass outrage seem to be encouraging what an older generation would term as snowflake ‘dispositions’.
Is there a difference between being empathetic and being excessively politically correct?
Are we a society of snowflakes today? Do we need to cultivate a bit more of a stiff upper lip?
Is there a way to become less triggered by everything and be more centred?
Dr Joel talks about how we can come back to our centre and be less triggered in this triggering world. – The Vibes, July 4, 2022
Dr Joel Low is a clinical psychologist and director at The Mind Psychological Services & Training, and an exco member of the MSCP. He specialises in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and works with a wide range of clients to help them reach their goals.
If you would like to reach us, with questions, comments or a problem you’d like us to discuss, send us an email at: [email protected]
Produced by Shazmin Shamsuddin and sound engineered by Ethan Phoon
