(ha ha - I had to put a trigger icon on my trigger question! ironic)

I am wondering if there is any way there could be some GENERAL guidelines posted about what needs a trigger icon. I know that different things are triggering for different people....for example, movie theaters are very triggering for me, but I KNOW that is super unusual and would never expect a trigger icon on a post about going to the movies.

However, I think there are certain things - like rape - that are probably triggering to a number of people. I am wondering if there is some way that there could just be some loose guidelines or suggestions- like if a post is going to mention rape/rapists, details of cutting, suicide, SA - then they need a trigger icon?

I don't want to come across as being oversensitive (although maybe I am!). I just think certain topics need that icon.

I've been following a thread in psychotherapy that took an unexpected turn that was very triggering for me. (no, it wasn't about movie theaters lol). I bet some other people were triggered too....

I have NO idea if this makes sense or is possible, but I just wanted to throw it out there as an idea.

Thanks for listening!

[gimmeice]

I also would like some guidelines, I find it hard to figure out when I should use the icon so I probably over use it as a precaution plus a list of guidelines would be able to help our new members understand the use of the icon.

[lizardlady]

Good idea earthmama!

[sabby]

There certainly are specific things that we all need to have a trigger icon used. Anything mentioning suicide/suicidal ideation, abuse, etc etc. The most important thing to remember is to use your best judgement when it comes to using the trigger icon. If you don't use it and there is something triggery in the post, very often a member will let a team member know and we'll go in and put the trigger icon on the post.

We couldn't possibly know what triggers everyone. We must all do our best to manage our triggers here, as we do in real life. Many times, what triggers one doesn't trigger all. It's always best to err on the side of caution and if you have even an inkling that what you are posting about may be triggering to someone, go ahead and use the icon


sabby

[deliquesce]

the ones i would put a trigger icon up for:

- abuse
- excessive swearing/extreme anger/violence
- suicide/suicidal ideation
- self harm/intent to self harm
- in the ED forum: mentions of binging/purging/restriction and statistics e.g. height/weight

i think these ones are pretty general. i don't know if anyone has anything to add?

[multipixie9]

as said, there are many triggers. along with the ones mentioned a certain number of folks are triggered by witchcraft, satanism and any talk of rituals. paranormal activity....i guess it could go on to some kind of extreme trying to cover them all.

But, truly the best advice from someone in Admin was to be careful and if we suspect what we write may be triggering - just go ahead and use the trigger icon - it's just a simple act of thoughtfulness for the sensitive individuals among us (and i admit i certainly am one).

if you have never experienced "triggering" it may be very hard to understand. however it is when some random piece of info that comes across your notice suddenly causes an intense emotional reaction that goes from distressing to horrifying. it can take a few minutes to recover ones composure or it can take hours and even looking for help to regain emotional stability.

leslie and her sensitive lil pixies

[SeptemberMorn]

My info is TRIGGERING in itself. Beware.

I'm triggered by info on strokes and heart attacks. I nursed my mom for three months as she had stroke after stroke and was rendered totally helpless very early on. Almost everyone on my sperm donor's side of the family has died of heart attacks When I started having panic attacks, I felt that the panic attack was actually a stroke or heart attack.

[lizardlady]

Sabby, I think what people have been suggesting is adding something to the community guidelines to help people know when to use a trigger icon. I just checked the guidelines and there's nothing specifically about triggers. DocJohn mentions what's appropriate, but doesn't mention triggers. IMHO, it would be helpful to include it in the guidelines.