Triggers
Trigger: A stimulus—such as a person, place, situation, or thing—that contributes
to an unwanted emotional or behavioral response.
The Problem
Describe the problem your triggers are contributing to. What’s the worst-case scenario, if you are
exposed to your triggers?
Trigger Categories
Just about anything can be a trigger. To begin exploring your own triggers, think about each of
the categories listed below. Is there a specific emotion that acts as a trigger for you? How about
a person or place? List your responses in the provided spaces.
Emotional State
People
Places
Things
Thoughts
Activities / Situations
Tips for Dealing with Triggers
• Oftentimes, the best way to deal with a trigger is to avoid it. This might mean making
changes to your lifestyle, relationships, or daily routine.
• Create a strategy to deal with your triggers head on, just in case. Your strategy might
include coping skills, a list of trusted people you can talk to, or rehearsed phrases to
help you get out of a troublesome situation.
• Don’t wait until the heat of the moment to test your coping strategy. Practice!
© 2017 Therapist Aid LLC 1 Provided by TherapistAid.com
Triggers
In this section, you will develop a plan for dealing with your three biggest
triggers. Review your plan regularly, and practice each of the strategies.
Describe your three biggest triggers, in detail.
#1
Trigger
#2
#3
Describe your strategy for avoiding or reducing exposure to each trigger.
#1
Trigger
#2
#3
Describe your strategy for dealing with each trigger head on, when they cannot be avoided.
#1
Trigger
#2
#3
© 2017 Therapist Aid LLC 2 Provided by TherapistAid.com
