Does Your Home Trigger You? How to Make It Safer
(Summery) Trauma reminders aren’t always obvious. Sometimes everyday objects in your home can carry painful associations for you or for other members of your system. Becoming aware of these hidden triggers is an important step in creating a safer living environment. By noticing which items stir up distress and setting them aside—whether temporarily or permanently—you give your system room to breathe, recover, and feel safer in daily life.
It is possible there are objects in your living space which are reminders of traumatic events or traumatic times, either for you for other members of your DID system. As you become aware of such objects, consider putting them away, out of sight when possible.
If your system has some communication, you can ask internally if there are any objects that are upsetting reminders to any members and which they would appreciate removing. It is possible that further along your recovery journey, you may be able to see those objects without them being triggers. Or perhaps you’ll decide you don’t need those objects anymore at all. But until then, designate a place you can keep these items for the time being. Such as in a box in a closet, or in your basement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t know which objects are triggers?
That’s completely normal. Often, the connection between an object and a memory is unconscious. You might notice sudden shifts in mood, body sensations, or urges to avoid certain items. These can be gentle signals that the object is linked to distress for someone in your system.
What if some parts want to keep the object and others don’t?
This is common in DID systems. One part may see the object as sentimental or useful, while another finds it deeply upsetting. Try approaching this with curiosity and respect—acknowledging both perspectives and negotiating a temporary solution, like placing the object in safe storage until the system can revisit the decision together.
Do I need to throw away every object that triggers me?
Not at all. The goal isn’t to strip your life of everything linked to the past, but to reduce unnecessary distress. Sometimes putting an item out of sight for now is enough. Later in healing, you may find the object no longer affects you—or you may decide it doesn’t belong in your life anymore. Either choice can be valid.
What if I can’t move the object (like furniture or a shared item)?
When removing it isn’t an option, consider creative adjustments. You might cover the item, change its location slightly, or add positive associations around it (like placing a comforting object nearby). Even small shifts can reduce the intensity of a trigger and help your system feel safer in your space.