Psychological trauma that occurs in childhood can affect people well into adulthood. Everyone experiences trauma differently, so symptoms may vary from one person to another. However, there are some common patterns that show up among survivors of childhood trauma. If you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one, here are some indicators to look for.

Psychological Trauma: Creating a False Self

Children who are abused or neglected often try to adopt personality traits and behaviors that they believe will make their caregivers happy. While this may help children anticipate and occasionally avoid subsequent episodes of maltreatment, the practice can have harmful effects in adulthood. If you’ve experienced childhood trauma or any other mental health disorder, you may have buried your emotions. As an adult, you may have difficulty presenting your authentic self to the world, fearing that people won’t accept you for who you really are.

Trauma Counselling: Overcoming A Victim Mindset

Children who grow up in unstable homes receive the message early on that the world is not a safe place and that they have no control over their environment. This mentality can easily persist into adulthood without the proper trauma counselling. If you struggle with a victim mindset, think of yourself as a survivor instead. As an adult, you have more control over your life than you did as a child. Remember, too, that you are likely more intelligent, more capable, and more resourceful than you realize.

How Childhood Trauma Affects Adult Relationships

Children who cannot form healthy attachments to caregivers because of shock trauma often have difficulty with relationships as adults. Because survivors of emotional trauma may feel numb or have problems with regulating their emotions, they struggle to give and receive love. Because they may shut down or tune out when they’re being mistreated, they may be vulnerable to unhealthy relationship dynamics, even as adults.

Risky or Self-Destructive Behaviors

Children and teens who experience psychological trauma may engage in impulsive, risky, self-destructive behaviors such as driving at high speeds or using drugs and alcohol. These behaviors can continue into adulthood. Children who feel abandoned may go on to abandon themselves, making poor choices and neglecting self-care.

Comprehensive Childhood Trauma Treatment

If you or a loved one has experienced psychological trauma in childhood, there is good news: recovery is possible. At Ridgeview Institute, we understand that mental health doesn’t take school breaks. We offer comprehensive trauma treatment that includes inpatient services, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient therapy.