Contents
and Health
Childhood trauma can have far-reaching and deeply-seated repercussions that can last well into adulthood. Adverse childhood experiences are known to increase the risk of developing mental health issues and chronic physical health issues, as well as affecting social and economic wellbeing.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are typically defined as any traumatic or challenging events that occur during childhood, such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence, substance misuse and poverty. ACEs can profoundly affect the mental and physical health and wellbeing of a developing child, and the impact can persist into adulthood.
Long-term Impact of Childhood Trauma
The long-term impact of childhood trauma can be wide-ranging and serious. Vulnerable adults with unresolved traumatic experiences may engage in risky or unhealthy behaviours such as self-harming, substance misuse or unsafe sex. Studies have shown that exposure to childhood trauma is associated with an increased risk of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety and PTSD.
In addition, exposure to childhood trauma can also increase the risk of drawing in situations where the individual may experience violence or abuse, poor employment opportunities, homelessness and a lack of educational achievement.
Physical Health
Evidence suggests that exposure to childhood trauma can negatively affect physical health in adulthood. Studies have shown a link between childhood trauma and an increased risk of developing chronic physical health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke and cancer, as well as poor physical functioning and a decreased lifespan.
Conclusion
Childhood trauma has serious and far-reaching consequences for an individual’s overall wellbeing, both throughout life and in the longer-term. Individuals who have experienced childhood trauma are at greater risk of developing mental health issues and chronic physical health problems, and these can have a powerful and lasting effect on social and economic wellbeing.
It is essential that we take childhood trauma seriously and equip vulnerable children with the tools they need to cope with adversity, in order to reduce the long-term impact on their mental and physical health.