Reflecting on childhood typically brings images of innocence, joy, optimism, and adventure to mind. It's a time associated with protection and nurturing, where the basis of feeling safe and loved is established. The assurance of being safeguarded by one's family sets the stage for forming healthy and secure relationships later in life.

This idealized view of childhood is what many of us hold dear. However, the reality for many children and the lasting effects on their adult lives often sharply contrast with this idyllic picture.

Childhood trauma is when an event affects a child due to its scary or violent nature. These could arise due to various reasons such as neglect, any kind of abuse - physical, sexual or emotional, dangerous accidents or illnesses, natural calamities etc.

The Impact Of Childhood Trauma 

These traumatic events have an adverse effect on the adulthood of the individual. Let's try and understand a few impacts.

1. Distress

Often those who experience childhood trauma feel immensely distressed, which interrupts their daily life. 

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is sometimes experienced by adults who undergo childhood trauma. Some common symptoms could be - being easily startled, tensed, having difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, irritability, and aggressive outbursts as well as participating in risky or impulsive behavior.

2. Development And Growth 

Childhood trauma can also cause serious changes in the brain. Excessive stress during the early years can disrupt the growth of the brain, resulting in a stress response system that's always on high alert which can further result in increased cortisol levels. This can cause damage to the brain and cause psychological issues. These individuals may also lack comprehension and language skills.

3. Coping Mechanisms And Maladaptive Behaviors

These individuals often have extremely low self-esteem and self-image issues. Studies show that those who have faced childhood trauma have increased risks of having depression, suicidal ideations, and constant negative self-talk. It is noticed that these adults might resort to alcohol or other drugs, adopt disordered eating patterns, and engage in risky behaviors as they believe it can serve as a temporary relief or distraction from distressing memories. They may also engage in non-suicidal self-injury as a defense mechanism.

4. Relationship Challenges

Traumatic events can highly impact the definition of relationship for the individuals. They might have difficulty maintaining an healthy relationship and believing they deserve love. These issues could lead them to feel lonely and isolated from other people in the society. 

5. Emotional Dysregulation 

Trauma also affects our ability to handle and control emotions. Those who have faced childhood trauma might have sudden emotional outbursts, difficulty in managing with stress and could get triggered by certain actions/words.

Their low self-esteem and self-image also influences their mental health and wellbeing.

HEALING AND RECOVERY 

1. Therapy And Medications

In certain situations, doctors might recommend medications to help control symptoms of mental health issues like depression or anxiety. It's important to note that these medications are most effective when used together with therapy and other comprehensive treatments. This combined approach ensures a more holistic and effective way of managing and improving mental health conditions. You could always reach out to us at Heart It Out to get assistance from our mental health professionals.

2. CBT 

These individuals might also display negative behaviours and coping styles while trying to distract themselves from their traumas. Here, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be a helpful intervention in order to help them identify their destructive behaviour and thought patterns while also actively trying to overcome their unhealthy coping mechanisms.

3. Self-love

It is extremely beneficial to exercise self care habits like meditation, journaling, exercising or doing activities that help the person feel more at ease. It encourages a healthier lifestyle. Self-compassion can be an important tool in fostering a positive mindset that helps boost the recovery and heeling journey. 

Resilience, defined as the ability to recover from challenging circumstances, plays a crucial role in healing from the effects of early-life trauma. A supportive and nurturing environment along with efficient coping mechanisms increase resilience. Thus building a healthy relationship with oneself is also extremely important in recovering from traumas.