If only the universe gave out real trigger warnings

Trigger warning: this article contains topics that may cause emotional distress to some people

Nah, I'm only kidding. Except, who am I to say what may or may not be a trigger to someone else...

Although trigger warnings are often required and implemented in order to avoid any liability issues, they're still incredibly important in protecting one's mental health.

For a lot of people, our days would be so much easier if there were real life trigger warnings. This way, we can avoid any anxiety or negative reactions to situations. But (unfortunately?) triggers will present themselves any time of any day, and for the most part, we can't control them.

I'm confronted with triggers every day of my life. Before receiving professional help, I would do anything in my power to avoid these triggers, which meant that I would isolate myself from the outside world.

I've grown to learn that in order to get better, I must confront my fears (at least this is the case for those suffering from OCD). If something triggering occurs, I'm to do my best in letting the feelings of anxiety and distress pass. Giving into the trigger by engaging in rituals and compulsions only alleviates the pain temporarily. If I confront these triggers head on, then my brain will start to become more desensitized to them, leading to a more permanent drop in anxiety.

So when my friends and family unintentionally say/do something that triggers my obsessive thoughts, I have a couple of options....

1. I can be more upfront with people and explain to them that what they have said/done has put me in an OCD episode

(A potential problem with this is that people will start to sensor themselves around me, which isn't what should happen... don't sensor yourself, please. I need to force myself to deal with these issues... that is, unless I cannot possibly cope with the situation... but I will let you know when that's the case)

2. To myself, I can recognize the triggering incident and practice techniques to push through the anxiety

3. I can push away and mentally remove myself from the situation, ritualize to feel immediate relief, and resent the person for causing my anxiety

OBVIOUSLY option three is never the right move... Options 1 and 2 seem to be great choices. The blending of these two approaches will likely give better results.

It's okay to not be okay. It's okay to let people know when you're not okay. I truly believe that the more open you are about your issues, the more understanding people will be. And if someone isn't very empathetic or sympathetic, then f*ck em (sorry mom). In terms of mental health, ignorance is NOT bliss. Learning more about what other people deal with can help make the world a safer, less judgmental place. Knowledge is powerful. Your knowledge of different mental health conditions can be extremely helpful in sharing information, stories, and experiences to others.

So no, the universe can't give out real life trigger warnings. Life is too unpredictable. But that's okay. Because facing your fears is one of the most important steps in any sort of recovery.

And as always, have a lovely afternoon.