As leaders of student communities, you often facilitate discussions, events, and activities that bring people from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences together. While fostering inclusivity and open dialogue is essential, it is equally important to be mindful of the potential emotional impact of certain topics. Trigger warnings (TWs) are a practical and respectful way to ensure that your events or content remain accessible and considerate to everyone. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to write and carry out trigger warnings effectively.
What Are Trigger Warnings?
Trigger warnings are notices that inform your audience about content that might be distressing or triggering. They allow individuals to prepare themselves emotionally or opt out of engaging with the material.
For example:
Trigger Warning: This event/performance includes discussions/themes of sexual violence and PTSD. Please proceed with care.
Trigger warnings are not about censorship; they are about creating a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels respected.
Why Are Trigger Warnings Important?
- Promote Inclusivity: Trigger warnings acknowledge the diverse experiences of your audience and demonstrate empathy for those who may be affected by certain content.
- Empower Choice: By providing a heads-up, you allow individuals to make informed decisions about their participation.
- Foster Psychological Safety: For those who have experienced trauma, trigger warnings can help prevent unexpected distress or harm.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Trigger Warnings
1. Identify Potentially Distressing Content
Consider the themes or topics you plan to discuss or present. Common subjects that may require trigger warnings include:
- Violence: Domestic abuse, sexual assault, war, or physical harm.
- Mental Health: Depression, anxiety, self-harm, or suicide.
- Trauma and Discrimination: Racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, or ableism.
- Graphic Content: Gore, substance abuse, or explicit imagery.
If in doubt, err on the side of caution and include a warning.
2. Be Specific and Clear
Vague warnings can leave people unsure of what to expect, while overly detailed warnings may unintentionally retraumatise. Strike a balance by naming the topics explicitly without going into unnecessary detail.
Example of a Clear Warning:
Trigger Warning: This panel discussion includes references to sexual violence, self-harm, and eating disorders.
Avoid vague language like "This content may be upsetting." Instead, specify the nature of the potentially distressing material.
3. Keep It Concise
Your warning should be brief and to the point. Avoid lengthy explanations or descriptions within the warning itself.
4. Use Appropriate Tone and Language
Write your trigger warnings in a neutral, respectful tone. Avoid judgmental or dismissive language that might undermine the purpose of the warning.
How to Carry Out Trigger Warnings
1. Placement Matters
Trigger warnings should appear prominently before the audience engages with the material. Placement depends on the medium:
- Written Content: Place warnings at the top of the document, email, or programme.
- Presentations/Slides: Display the warning on the opening slide or verbally mention it before the session begins.
- Events/Discussions: Announce the warning verbally at the start and include it in event descriptions and promotional materials.
Examples of where to place Trigger Warnings:
- In ticket description
- On your community webpage
- On social media
- On receipt text
- Around venue
- On flyers on chairs/in programme
- Announced before the event begins
- On presentation slides
2. Provide Time to Opt Out or Prepare
After presenting a trigger warning, allow participants time to decide if they want to continue. For example:
"We will begin discussing the topic in two minutes. Please feel free to step out or take a moment if needed."
3. Offer Support Options
If possible, provide resources or avenues for support, such as the Students’ Union’s Advice Centre, the University’s Wellbeing Team or relevant support services or charities. This demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of your audience.
4. Be Flexible
Recognise that individuals may respond differently. Create an environment where stepping out or seeking assistance is respected and normalised.
Additional Best Practices
- Gather Feedback: After your event, ask for feedback on whether your trigger warnings were adequate and helpful. Use this input to improve future events.
- Educate Your Community: Ensure that all members of your community understand the importance of trigger warnings and know how to implement them.
- Stay Updated: Cultural and societal understandings of triggering content evolve. Stay informed about topics that may require warnings.
- Show Performances: If you’re performing a show, do some research into previous performances. Has your show been performed on the West End/Broadway, in Community Theatres or at universities before? If it has, you can use their trigger warnings as a great place to get started on writing your own!
A good trigger warning should be:
- Clear: Explicitly state the type of content.
- Concise: Avoid unnecessary detail but be specific enough.
- Visible: Ensure the warning appears prominently before the content begins.
Sample Trigger Warnings
Event Description Example:
Trigger Warning: This event will explore themes of mental health, including discussions of anxiety, depression, and suicide. Please prioritise your well-being and seek support if needed.
Presentation Slide Example:
(Slide displayed before the presentation begins)
Trigger Warning This presentation includes images and discussions related to war violence and PTSD. If you feel uncomfortable, you may step out or seek assistance as needed.
Using trigger warnings is a simple yet impactful way to create a more inclusive and considerate environment within your Student Community. By identifying potentially distressing content, clearly communicating it, and respecting your audience’s boundaries, you demonstrate care and empathy. Implement these practices consistently, and encourage feedback to ensure your approach remains thoughtful and effective.