Adults that survived childhood trauma may have trouble regulating their emotions and have difficulty in relationships, as well as have poor memory and low self-esteem. Childhood trauma can also affect an adult’s long term health by manifesting in addiction, mental health disorders, or chronic illness.
According to Psychology Today, one of the most devastating impacts of childhood trauma on adults is the effect it has on self-image. Trauma from childhood in adults causes people to be more likely to develop a pattern of victimhood thinking. This ideology can be dangerous, as the way people perceive themselves impacts their words, choices, careers, opportunities, and relationships. Individuals who genuinely think the world is out to get them can be impacted by fear and prevented from following their dreams.
“In many cases, counselors and therapists can serve as the greatest allies for adults who have undergone childhood trauma. This is largely because trained mental health professionals are equipped to help people work through and heal these difficult issues.”
How Childhood Trauma Affects Personal Relationships
Childhood Trauma Increases Likelihood of Experiencing Depression
According to reports from Psychological Science, adults who were exposed to childhood trauma are considerably more likely to experience depression. Depression affects the way that individuals view themselves, others, and the world around them. Depression also has the power to engender emotional and even physical problems.
Here are some of the most common symptoms and indicators of depression:
How to Overcome Childhood Trauma
Engage in Self-Care
Healthy habits, such as exercise, a good night’s sleep, and healthy eating, can all be exceptional in developing a healthy sense of self and moving on from trauma. Another important form of self-care involves considering the quality of one’s friends, romantic partners, and other relationships. The people around us impact our perceptions, choices, and world views.
Pursue Hobbies and Extracurricular Interests
One of the most effective ways to overcome negative memories is by practicing gratitude. Pursuing hobbies and extracurricular interests not only allows adults to evolve as individuals, but they also help adults to find a sense of self and something to look forward to. It’s important for survivors of childhood trauma to know that their past experiences do not have to define the rest of their lives. Everyone has the power to control their fate and quality of life.
Alternative Solutions
Stay Focused on Your Future
Your past does not dictate your future. As children, we are often restricted by the rules and limitations set by our parents and other authority figures. Trauma can also make us feel like we are not in charge of our lives or their direction. But as as an adult, you have the freedom to set your own path toward a future built by your own personal goals, morals, and ambition.
Don’t Try to Rationalize Your Trauma
It’s not uncommon to try and make sense of the trauma inflicted throughout your childhood. However, there is absolutely nothing that can justify child abuse, so don’t strain yourself trying to rationalize it. Instead, focus on healing.
Learn from Your Past
Seek Professional Help and Guidance
Here at BetterHelp, our specialists understand that life presents unique challenges to everyone. No matter who you are or what you’ve been through, your past does not define you, nor does it have to determine the rest of your life. We can support you in moving past it. Only you can decide to seek professional help. BetterHelp is a convenient option for online therapy should you want support on your healing journey. Below are some counselor reviews, from people experiencing similar issues.
Final Thoughts
Childhood trauma can negatively impact the rest of your life, but it doesn’t have to be that way. You can heal. As an adult, you now hold the power to change your life. Take the first step.
Counselor Reviews
“Natasha is a very insightful, kind and compassionate counselor. Her gentle, professional approach to guiding you through a problem shows her empathy and understanding. She helped me see some childhood issues that I hadn’t addressed in years.”
“She’s kind, responsive, caring, validating – everything I could ever hope for in a therapist. I came from a very abusive, traumatic childhood that still influences who I am, and Billie is helping me undo that damage. She answers me every day, responds to everything I write to her, and always answers my questions. When I get stuck, she nudges me forward with gentle suggestions that I can use or not… I feel like I’m making so much progress with her.”