March 14, 2025

28. Triggers

12 minutes

In this episode, Dr. Caroline dives into a term that's often thrown around but not always fully understood — triggers.

We hear it all the time: “That was so triggering!” — but what does being triggered really mean? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about feeling annoyed or disagreeing with someone.

Dr. Caroline breaks down the true definition of a trigger, why using the term incorrectly can trivialize serious mental health conditions like PTSD, and how to spot the difference between feeling upset and experiencing a trauma response.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

What a trigger actually is — a stimulus (sight, sound, smell, or sensation) that instantly pulls you back into a traumatic memory and the intense emotions tied to it.

What a trigger is NOT — it’s not a disagreement, an unpleasant feeling, or simple anger. Misusing the word can minimize the seriousness of trauma.

How to cope with real triggers — practical tools like emotional first aid, grounding techniques, and the butterfly hug to calm your nervous system.

Why EMDR therapy works — how it can help desensitize triggers and reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories.

Key Highlights:

Why language matters: Mislabeling everyday frustrations as “triggers” can undermine the severity of trauma and mental health struggles — just like calling a sniffle “the flu” or a bug bite “cancer.”

Long-term healing: EMDR therapy can desensitize triggers by reducing the emotional intensity of traumatic memories.

Extra support: Grab Dr. Caroline’s free guide — 10 Ways to Feel Better Now — for practical tools to manage anxiety and stress.

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Lloyd’s Heal Your Past online EMDR program – Register at emdrdoctor.com.au/heal

Research on PTSD treatments and why EMDR is faster and more effective than traditional talk therapy for trauma

Contact and Feedback:

Thinking about trying EMDR for PTSD? Reach out to Dr. Lloyd at emdrdoctor.com.au.

Note: This podcast provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.

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Join Dr. Caroline Lloyd as she demystifies PTSD and provides hope for recovery, showing that healing is possible with the right tools and support. Thanks for listening!

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By Dr Caroline Lloyd

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