In trauma psychology, “being triggered” means that something has activated a person’s post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. This could include emotions, physical symptoms, or flashbacks.

Before we can even begin to understand what our triggers are trying to tell us, we need to get a clear understanding of what is and what is not a trigger. So, first, let’s consider the differences.

Dr. Ramani Durvasula is a clinical psychologist who writes extensively about mental health topics, so when she uses the term "triggered," it is not done flippantly — such as to complain that one was ...

This popular term is often misused, experts say, which may cause more harm than good. Credit...Vanessa Saba Supported by By Melinda Wenner Moyer This month’s Psych 101 column has a guest writer, ...