Between the lines, childhood trauma involves any event that strains a child’s capacity to manage and forever leaves emotional scars up until maturity. Knowing about these affects signposts the way through healing and restoration.
Trauma could be in the form of being emotionally abandoned, exposed to violence, medical procedures/accidents or living with addiction/an unstable parent. Even the simplest situations can turn into a traumatic one if we were not supported in processing it.
Trauma and Emerging Adulthood
Children’s brains are still growing, so they’re particularly susceptible to the effects of trauma. Chronic stress alters brain development – specifically in regions of the brain responsible for emotional regulation, memory and decision-making. This shows up as anxiety, depression, not being able to trust others well or struggling with self-worth. For advice about Foster Care Newport, contact https://saferfostering.org.uk/foster-care-wales/newport/
The Body Remembers
It is a somatic experience as much as it is psychological. For adults, this can manifest as physical symptoms that have no medical causes; hypervigilance before or after traumatic incidents; and an overwhelming response which they feel unable to control in situations that would not normally warrant such strong emotions. As the body runs out of energy and nutrients, it is even more shaky as its first defence mechanism requires immense mental effort to re-engage when running off adrenaline for too long — if not already disconnected.
Recognising the Signs
That includes things like… having trouble in relationships; perfectionism; pleasing others whilst ignoring one’s own needs and desires, going emotionally numb or blowing up etc. Other people develop coping strategies, such as workaholism or substance use to help deal with these intense onslaughts of emotions.
Hope for Healing
Knowing about trauma is step one. People will be able to work through their trauma by having a more positive system, getting the support and therapy they need with love and compassion instead of working themselves up or down. Neuroplasticity in the brain leads to positive change always being possible.