Everyone is affected differently by childhood trauma. It may have significant mental health implications for some. For others, it may result in chronic physical health problems. A child can experience trauma and recover without long-term repercussions if the proper support system is in place. Unfortunately, those without the resources may struggle. There are many factors that determine how trauma affects you, such as temperament, resources, and environment. Healing is possible no matter what

What’s considered childhood trauma?

Trauma during childhood, also known as developmental trauma, is any significant experience that overwhelms a child’s ability to function and cope.

Situations perceived as highly threatening – physically, emotionally, or both – are traumatizing. However, what is traumatic for you may not be for someone else, and vice versa. A formal diagnosis of childhood trauma does not exist in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). In fact, it is listed as a possible contributing factor for a number of mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

Symptoms of childhood trauma in adults

Traumas experienced as a child can affect how you live your life as an adult. Long after the initial shock has faded, a multitude of effects can be experienced. Research from 2010 found that childhood trauma is associated with significantly higher rates of chronic physical and mental health conditions among adults.

Long term effects of childhood trauma

In terms of mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most common diagnoses associated with trauma.

An exposure to a traumatic event during childhood or adulthood is often the cause of PTSD. This may be a one-time occurrence or a repeated occurrence. 3.5% of adults in the United States experience symptoms of PTSD every year, and 1 in 11 will receive a diagnosis of PTSD in their lifetime