By Dr. Nour Al Ghriwati, PhD
Lead Psychologist & Founder of CAYA Care

Childhood trauma can have lasting effects, shaping who we are and how we feel well into adulthood. Trauma can come in many forms: it might be a difficult family situation, abuse, bullying, loss of a loved one, or even experiencing or witnessing a natural disaster. Talk about what is going on in the world too in terms of war, just seeing images on social media outlets of the Middle East has traumatized some of us. When we go through something frightening or upsetting, it’s normal to feel afraid, sad, or confused. But for many people, those feelings don’t go away on their own. Without proper support, the emotional pain from childhood can impact our mental, emotional, and physical health for years to come.

How Childhood Trauma Shapes Our Emotions and Reactions

When a child experiences trauma, it affects how they see the world and how safe they feel in it. These experiences leave deep impressions in the brain, making it easier to feel anxious, scared, or sad even when the traumatic event is in the past. Children who face trauma may develop coping ways to deal with their feelings, like shutting down or getting very angry in certain situations. They might have trouble focusing, feel “on edge,” or be unable to relax. And without guidance, these feelings and behaviors can persist into adulthood, making everyday challenges feel overwhelming.

According to research by Dr. Vincent Felitti and his team in the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study, childhood trauma significantly raises the risk of mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and even addiction later in life. The study found that adults who experienced several types of trauma in childhood were more likely to face serious mental and physical health challenges. Trauma from early in life makes it harder for people to handle stress, trust others, and form healthy relationships.

What Happens When Childhood Trauma Goes Untreated?

Untreated trauma doesn’t just go away; it can grow and manifest in new ways over time. Adults who went through trauma as children may experience what’s called “hypervigilance”—always being on high alert, as though they’re waiting for something bad to happen. They might feel “stuck” in past pain, struggle with feelings of worthlessness, or have a constant underlying sense of fear. The stress and anxiety can lead to physical symptoms too, like chronic pain, sleep problems, digestive issues, and frequent headaches.

Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, a physician and advocate for mental health awareness, has shown in her research that untreated childhood trauma is closely linked to physical health problems later in life. When the body is constantly in “fight-or-flight” mode due to unresolved trauma, it creates chronic stress, which raises the risk for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Parenting

Unaddressed trauma can affect adults as they move into new life stages, including becoming parents. For adults who have experienced childhood trauma, parenting can bring up old memories and unresolved feelings. They may struggle to stay calm or feel anxious about their children’s safety. In some cases, parents might unknowingly pass on their trauma responses—such as anger, fear, or withdrawal—to their kids, affecting family dynamics and their children’s sense of security. Children pick up on these cues, and without knowing why, they may start feeling anxious or “on guard” too.

A study published by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, found that adults who experienced trauma as children are more likely to be overly protective or highly anxious parents. For some, this can lead to a cycle of trauma passed from one generation to the next, making it harder for their own children to feel secure and confident in the world.

Breaking the Cycle: How Therapy Can Help

One of the most powerful ways to deal with childhood trauma is through therapy. A skilled therapist can help people talk about their experiences in a safe and supportive environment, helping them understand and process their feelings. Therapy can teach people skills for managing intense emotions, dealing with stress, and building healthier relationships with others.

Starting therapy can feel challenging, but research shows it’s worth it. Studies from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicate that therapy can reduce the impact of childhood trauma, helping people to feel calmer, more connected, and more in control. Therapy can even lower the risks of health issues connected to untreated trauma, like heart disease and depression, by helping people develop healthier ways to handle stress.

Moving Toward Healing

Childhood trauma may feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your life. With the right support, children and adults can learn to understand their experiences and feel more at peace. Healing from trauma is a journey, but it’s one that can lead to a better, brighter future.

Remember, reaching out for help doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you—it’s a step toward creating a healthier and happier life, for yourself and for those you love. Whether you’re a child, teen, or adult, therapy and support can make all the difference in breaking free from the pain of the past.

References:

• Felitti, V. J., Anda, R. F., Nordenberg, D., et al. (1998). Relationship of childhood abuse and household dysfunction to many of the leading causes of death in adults. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 14(4), 245-258.
• Anda, R. F., Felitti, V. J., Bremner, J. D., et al. (2006). The enduring effects of abuse and related adverse experiences in childhood. European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience, 256(3), 174-186.
• Burke Harris, N. (2018). The Deepest Well: Healing the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Adversity.

Conclusion

Childhood trauma is a powerful stressor, but it doesn’t have to control our lives. By recognizing its impact and seeking support, we can begin to heal, break cycles of hurt, and create healthier futures for ourselves and our families. Therapy offers a safe space to process difficult memories and build tools for managing emotions and stress. Addressing trauma isn’t just about overcoming the past; it’s about opening doors to a brighter, more peaceful future. With understanding and help, it’s possible to move forward with strength and resilience, building the life we deserve.

If you or a loved one are struggling with trauma, remember that you don’t have to face it alone. At CAYA Care, we offer compassionate and personalized care services that prioritize your emotional well-being. Visit CAYACare.com to learn more about how we can support your healing journey.