Note: You can also print this document as a one-page handout in Adobe PDF format by clicking here. (It requires Adobe Reader which you can obtain for free here.)

 

 

Identifying Triggers

 

 

Sobriety will not remain in the face of constant deprivation. Nurture is important for present happiness and to make up for past deficits. List some people, places, and things that nurture you. Print out this form for your use if you like.

 

Things That Can Trigger

Examples for You

People

 

Being around people who are shaming or with whom you have conflicts

Family

 

Friends

 

Dating/romance (including seeing old lovers, partners, etc.)

 

Coworkers

 

Authority figures

  

Places

 

Old cruise haunts

 

Places that are heavily laden with emotional memories

 

Things

 

Auto accident

 

Performance evaluation at work

 

Souvenirs of past encounters

  

Toxic thoughts

 

"All or nothing" thinking, catastrophizing, other cognitive disortions .

  

Toxic feelings

 

HALT - hungry, angry, lonely, tired

 

Anxiety, depression, shame

  

Toxic behaviors

 

Trading sex stories at work

 

Leaving late for an appointment

 

  

 

 

 

David C. Bissette, Psy.D.       Alexandria, VA       202-596-6036 

 

© 2004 David C. Bissette, Psy.D.