Sometimes the struggle creeps upon you, an unassuming ninja in the light. You think you’re fine, that you’ve moved on from things, that your sass is in full swing ready to take on the world. And then a sound, a smell, a word, a touch, will serve as your trigger. You’ll get hit, hard, like someone has punched you from the inside out. You’ll be winded, sick, straining to peel your face off the heel of that memory. And then what? You simply have to address it.
But I don’t want to address it.
I know.
Okay then, sorted. See you lat —
— Not so fast, Ninja. Sit down.
I’m actually quite busy and —
— SIT. DOWN.
Alright then, I’m seated. Make it quick, okay?
This isn’t going to be quick. So. You’ve had these dreams, and these triggers. You keep having these dreams and these triggers. They’re stressful. You’re just going to leave it there?
It was looking rather successful, until you made me sit down.
I do apologise for making you face things that need to be faced. What a monster I am.
Indeed. Well I don’t have all day.
Right, because I’m just dying to be here. Listen, have you done anything to process these things?
Well, I’ve acknowledged them …
Big claps, first step. But have you written them down? Identified any recurring themes or symbols? Any commonalities?
I just don’t think that —
Work is good, then?
Ah … well, it’s just that …
Nothing bothering you?
Not more than usual, I think? You know —
— Stop. Get a notepad.
That sounds like work.
No more than the energy you expend feeling anxious.
You have a point, I guess.
And a pen. Get a pen.
Well obviou —
— A nice one. A fountain pen with one of your coloured inks. Make it fun.
Fun?
Well, better.
Finally, some realism.
I could have thought of a wittier line, but I respect it. Shall we begin?
Well, I have my coloured ink now, so how can we not?
I’m so proud of you.
At some point, things need to be processed. The how is up to you. Whether you do it alone, sit down with your inner logic, or enlist a friend, family member or professional, it helps. The process shouldn’t be rushed, but some of the biggest challenges in life can often carry the greatest rewards. Like putting off homework or household chores, the hardest part is getting started. If you can, begin. Just begin.
Helpful Resources
Better Up: Emotional Triggers (what they are and how to deal)
The Dark Alive 