The most obvious signs of emotional arousal involve changes in the activity of the visceral motor (autonomic) system (see Chapter 21). Thus, increases or decreases in heart rate, cutaneous blood flow (blushing or turning pale), piloerection, sweating, and gastrointestinal motility can all accompany various emotions.
In an emotion, our brain triggers physiological changes within our body. These changes alter our autonomic processes (processes we don't consciously control), such as heart rate, breathing, sweating and blink rate. In turn these physiological changes create physical feelings, or sensations, within our body.
Emotion, in its most general definition, is a neural impulse that moves an organism to action, prompting automatic reactive behavior that has been adapted through evolution as a survival mechanism to meet a survival need.
An emotional trigger is anything — including memories, experiences, or events — that sparks an intense emotional reaction, regardless of your current mood. Emotional triggers are associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
When we feel under pressure the nervous system instructs our bodies to release stress hormones including adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol. These produce physiological changes to help us cope with the threat or danger we see to be upon us. This is called the “stress response” or the “fight-or-flight” response.
Arousal means that the heart rate increases, the sympathetic nervous system increases activity, and the brain begins to signal the increased production of hormones. When a person is excited, their emotions become more powerful and can affect their decision-making abilities.
Here are the steps on how you can recognize your own triggers:You Should Pay Attention to Your Mind and Body. ... You Should Step Back and Think. ... Determine the Cause of the Intense Emotions. ... Be Curious. ... Acknowledge Your Feelings. ... You Deserve Some Space. ... Be Open-Minded. ... If You Feel Negative Emotions, Practice Positive Actions.More items...•
Triggers vary widely from person to person and can be internal or external....Other common internal triggers include:Anger.Anxiety.Feeling overwhelmed, vulnerable, abandoned, or out of control.Loneliness.Muscle tension.Memories tied to a traumatic event.Pain.Sadness.