We all have our own vulnerabilities, things that provoke us, or situations that drive us in ways we would otherwise not respond. , to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.
A few weeks ago, A visited me while he was having a difficult time at work. A was an excellent professional and most of the time got accolades and recognition for getting her work done. However, this time Mr. A received negative comments from his manager saying that he could not achieve his goal. Even when she resumed her job, Ms. A could not do her job as well as before, avoiding work and making mistakes, and began to feel work stress.
Mr. B was a patient who came to me complaining of fits of anger while driving. Otherwise, B was calm and he didn’t get too angry. Occasionally, however, when faced with situations such as being run over by another car or being in a minor accident, he would experience bouts of anger, often resulting in verbal and physical attacks. It lasts for hours, and even interactions with family and friends are affected.
These are just a few examples of triggers that can cause significant distress to an individual in that moment. Given that each person reacts differently to the same situation, individual thought patterns, personal biases, emotional regulation skills, relationship patterns, previous life experiences, and they shape our perceptions and reactions. It is important to consider the method
(1) The first step in addressing such response patterns is to identify the triggers. Be aware of situations that cause significant distress. Keeping a written record of the same can also help you understand patterns that may emerge. Also, be aware of the physiological changes in your body that occur when you feel the trigger. This includes increased heart rate, altered breathing patterns, muscle tension, and more.
(2) At that moment, if you notice a heightened reaction, it’s best to step back and get out of the situation. Pause and delay the urge to react for just a few minutes. Leaving the physical space, distracting yourself by engaging in another task, or focusing on other stimuli in your environment can also help release and dissipate distress.
(3) At the same time, a long-term approach to dealing with such triggers is also important. Think about personal vulnerabilities that might affect responses in certain ways. We work with past experiences that can shape our reactions, and we work with belief systems that influence how we think and perceive.
(4) Practicing your emotional control skills can go a long way in dealing with these reactions. Identify and label the emotions you experience, and learn to tolerate the discomfort that comes from these emotions. Additionally, express these feelings openly and honestly with your closest friends and family. Responding to situations proactively helps you manage your communication effectively.
Finally, remember to prioritize self-care as you navigate through the challenges of everyday life. Maintain a healthy balance, take regular breaks, and take time to do what you love. . Please take care of your physical health. Practice relaxation and mindfulness regularly to maintain a positive, problem-solving attitude toward life.
