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LESSON 4 · Escape Toxic Patterns

What Triggers Setbacks

Setbacks follow predictable patterns that you can learn to anticipate. Anniversaries catch people off guard — your body remembers trauma even when your mind has moved on.

Stress accumulation depletes coping resources. New intimacy activates old wounds — vulnerability mirrors what was exploited. Physical states matter too: sleep loss, illness, and hormones compromise regulation.

Know your triggers so you can prepare.