Triggering (SH): I'm a prep cook;triggered everyday at work.

[lovatoac]

I have been cutting for about 4 months now and burned for a year before that. I got a job 2 weeks ago as a prep cook. Everyday I'm working with sharp, sharp knives, grills, a stove and an oven. i used to cut at most 3 times a week, now I have been cutting multiple times a day, and burning about once a day. It may sound lame, but for some reason the knives and fire everywhere triggers me so much. I really need the money though, I dont know what to do. Also, is it weird?

[Batman.]

Hey Devon!

Honestly, I don't think it's that weird, considering I'm a recovering self-harmer, who works as a dishwasher (therefore, also get exposure to sharp knives, scorching hot pans, etc.). It can be quite triggering, particularly on bad days. In fact, I have slipped up at work before, NOT a good idea!

Are you seeing a therapist or counselor for this? You probably should seek a professional, at least to get some healthier coping techniques.

Personally, when I'm at work and feel triggered, I try to move to a less "triggering" task. I don't know what you prep, but I've done some prep work as well, and there are some tasks that don't require knives or burners. However, if I'm triggered after work, I use my usual distractions (painting, drawing, video games, or whatever else).

Hopefully things will get easier, and your job works out well for you.

[suchxaxdollxx]

I was SH free for a while before I got the job I currently have. I started working with box cutters, so it triggered me. I got rid of alot of the stuff that I would use at home, but here at work I can't really do that. It's hard because I fight with myself every day not to cut, and it doesn't always work. It is a very hard, never ending cycle, because I need the job as well. Do something to keep your mind off of it, or think about something else that could preoccupy your mind.