The Troubling Consequences of Complex Trauma to Be Aware Of

It's no surprise that childhood abuse and neglect can result in hefty, long-term consequences. Repeated exposure to trauma can cause more complicated issues than single incidents of exposure. We refer to this frequent exposure to trauma as complex trauma.

When abuse or neglect replace safety and security in the home, it can lead to complex trauma. Children in these settings find ways to adapt to their surroundings in order to survive. Instead of forming a secure attachment, they're left to rely on their own coping and survival skills. As you might imagine, this can impact many areas of their development.

Let's talk about the differences between complex trauma and single incident trauma. We'll also discuss what we can do to assist those who have experienced trauma.

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How Does Complex Trauma Manifest Itself?

There is a difference between single incident trauma and complex trauma. When a traumatic event happens, it is referred to as a single incident trauma. Examples include witnessing a horrific car accident or experiencing a natural disaster. The psychological consequences of this trauma can lead to PTSD.

The distinction between simple trauma and complicated trauma is the frequency of exposure. Seeing or experiencing trauma daily or regularly can result in several symptoms specific to complex trauma.

Ongoing trauma can hinder crucial areas of development. Children who learn to suppress their emotions as a method of survival are likely to suffer from emotional dysregulation. Likewise, it can impact their ability to build trust, self-esteem, and self-worth.

It cannot be said enough, the importance of childhood attachment to a parent or caregiver is crucial to many areas of development. It is through these interactions that we learn to trust others and the world around us. When abuse and neglect replace love and protection, children grow up lacking a sense of security. As a result, they learn to rely on themselves instead of others. Likewise, they may struggle to trust anyone. They are likely to have a negative sense of self and identity. As such, this can result in a wide variety of issues as children move from childhood into adulthood.

Stress and emotions can be difficult to manage after experiencing complex trauma. As a result, you may see youth display uncontrollable outbursts or emotions out of character for the setting. Unless addressed, this can persist into adulthood.

Complex trauma can negatively impact both your physical and emotional health. Being subjected to consistent, intense stress can affect your immune system and brain development. (nctsn.org)

Treatment for Complex Trauma

There are several methods of treatment available to help. Yet, there appears to be a unique strategy to treat complex trauma that is highly successful. EMDR is a trauma-based therapeutic approach to help those living with complex trauma.

At Thrive Counseling Atlanta, we know the deep-rooted issues complex trauma can cause. Likewise, we understand that the healing process can be slow and painful. Therefore, we want you to know that we're here to support you through the entire process. Likewise, we're here to help you overcome your past and gain confidence in your future. Please call us or visit our website to learn more.