A traumatic event overwhelms a person’s coping ability, causing fear, helplessness or horror. This can include natural disasters, abuse, violence, neglect, and death. Traumatic events impact children more because they may lack resources to process it, leading to PTSD symptoms like re-experiencing, avoidance, negative thoughts and hyperarousal. Approximately 60% of US children experience traumatic events by age 17. These can be physical/sexual abuse, neglect, domestic violence, natural disasters, and accidents.
Long-Term Effects of Childhood Trauma
- Increased risk of mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Higher risk of chronic physical health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes
- Difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships, leading to problems with social functioning and self-esteem
- Impaired brain development, particularly in areas related to emotional regulation, attention, and decision-making.
- Maladaptive coping strategies, such as substance abuse, self-harm, and risky behaviors.
Best Practices in Supporting Children Who Have Experienced a Traumatic Event
- Ensure the child’s safety
- Provide emotional support
- Create a safe and stable environment
- Listen and validate
- Connect the child with appropriate resources
- Use trauma-informed approaches
- Take care of yourself
