Emotional Triggers: Navigating the Holiday Minefield

Written By: Alana Karran The holiday season, with its joyous persona, has a dark side for many. It is riddled with expectations, family stress and emotional triggers. “Holidays can be a time when the things that trigger depression–grief, disputes, transitions–are in abundance,” Reports Dr. Myrna Weissman, professor of epidemiology and psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. Emotional triggers often show up as a sudden “gut punch” or “heart wrenching” feeling when you hear or experience something that instantly evokes an emotional reaction inside of you. And the holidays can provide the perfect storm for emotions to get triggered. Generally, emotional triggers first show up in the body, before your mind has a chance to process. Clenching your muscles, breathing faster or holding your breath and heart palpitations are all manifestations of emotional triggers. Taking Ownership: Your Triggers