Decoding Triggers: A Path to Self-Understanding
Episode Overview
Triggers are often misunderstood, leading to blocking and avoidance instead of healing and adaptation Understanding the fallacy of overusing the word 'trigger' for any unpleasant emotion Realizing the importance of integration and processing of past traumas to move forward Challenging the societal misconception that triggers should be avoided at all costs Identifying ego defense mechanisms and their role in protecting us from further pain
If you are experiencing those type of triggers, those that thrust us into the portal of time back into the event that has hurt us or caused us pain, you still have some work to do. Avoidance isn't going to change that. Blocking is definitely not going to change that. You just have some work to do. And until you can integrate in the way that MC described, there is just no way around it.
Imagine if every time you felt a sudden wave of discomfort, it was actually a clue to something deeper. In this episode of 'The Vegas Therapist', Ryan Wynder dives into the world of triggers, those pesky emotional reactions that seem to come out of nowhere. But what if we've been thinking about them all wrong? Drawing from MaryCatherine McDonald's book 'Unbroken', Ryan breaks down why triggers are more than just unpleasant emotions—they're signals from our past that demand our attention.
He challenges the common myths: that we're always aware of our triggers, that we should avoid them at all costs, and that not feeling anything is a realistic goal. Instead, Ryan encourages us to face these triggers head-on, to process and integrate them, rather than block and avoid. With over 20 years of experience as a therapist in Las Vegas, Ryan brings a blend of professional insight and relatable anecdotes to help listeners understand their emotional landscape better.
Whether you're grappling with anxiety, dealing with past traumas, or just curious about why you react the way you do, this episode offers valuable perspectives on managing and healing from triggers. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that could change how you view your emotional responses and guide you towards a more integrated self.