thecuntmentality:

cherryvision:

thecuntmentality:

mindovermatterzine:

Trigger Warning 101, Mind Over Matter Zine

Trigger Warning 101

What is a trigger warning(TW)?

A TW is an explicit statement that a following image or piece of text contains descriptions, language or imagery that some may find disturbing or ‘triggering’ i.e. likely to induce an extremely emotionally distressing response such as post traumatic flashbacks, anxiety, or a strong urge to self harm.

When should they be used?

This is by no means an exhaustive list, but a general rule of thumb is that if you even suspect that someone may be triggered by what you are about to write, include a TW (‘it’s better to be safe than sorry’!):

• physical, sexual, or psychological abuse or torture
• self harm/injury
• disordered eating
• suicidal ideation/behaviours
• violence
• discriminatory attitudes or actions

[Image: Schematic of the triggering mechanism of a rifle]

‘Spaces that use TWs tend to be ones that expect and welcome readers with histories of trauma, and that think of them as people who matter, not just points to be made in arguments.’ - Abby

‘I like TWs, because they reassure me that there are allies out there, who see me, who know that I’m not invisible. I don’t find them condescending; I find them empowering.’ - Dani

‘I have PTSD and find most TWs to be useful. usually if a story or article has a TW attached I will think about how I am in that moment and either choose to read it, choose to read it later in a different and safe location, or choose not to look at it at all. This helps keep me on the path to healing.’ - Ameilia

Why are they important?

Survivors and/including the mentally ill should be afforded every reasonable effort to be included in spaces often taken for granted by others; they should be able to browse the internet, watch tv and read zines such as this without the constant fear of being propelled into a distressing emotional reaction because of the laziness/ignorance of others. It takes a few seconds to write a TW - a small effort that could potentially save enduring repurcussions for others.

How do I go about using them?

Commonly, TWs are found at the beginning of potentially triggering media and comprise the term ‘Trigger Warning’, followed by a broad description of the upsetting nature of the content (remember: you don’t want the description itself to be triggering, so keep it general but informative) e.g [Trigger Warning: graphic description of self injury and suicidal ideation/behaviour].

If you are using TWs online, make sure that any triggering images are linked or behind a ‘cut’.

TWs and this zine

TWs will be included in the index; that way you can save or avoid certain pages if needed.

Reblogging again for written description. 

Love,

Taylor