What is a trigger warning (TW)?

A Trigger Warning (TW) is a notice placed at the beginning of content to alert viewers or readers that the material may contain themes or topics that could potentially trigger emotional distress, especially for individuals who have experienced trauma related to those subjects. Common topics that trigger warnings are used for include violence, abuse, mental health issues, and graphic content.

For example, a blog post discussing personal experiences with trauma might include a “TW: Abuse” warning at the top, so readers who may find the topic distressing are informed before they choose to read further. The goal is to give people the opportunity to avoid content that could negatively impact their mental health or emotional well-being.

Trigger warnings are commonly used on social media, in blogs, articles, and other online platforms to create a more inclusive and considerate environment for individuals who may be sensitive to certain topics.