As people get older, many find themselves dealing with unresolved childhood trauma—things like dissociation or even symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These experiences can take a toll on our mental health and overall well-being, which is why it’s so important to acknowledge them and seek support when needed.
If you’ve been searching for ways to address untreated trauma or are curious about PTSD treatment, Northeast Health Services can offer mental health support.
Understanding the Link Between Childhood Trauma and Dissociation in Adulthood
Childhood experiences shape who we become, but what happens when those experiences are overwhelming or traumatic? For many, the ripples of childhood trauma extend far into adulthood, often manifesting in ways that impact mental and emotional health.
One typical response is dissociation, a coping mechanism that can help with survival during trauma but may complicate adult life. Exploring the connections between childhood trauma and dissociation can not only foster understanding but also pave the way for healing.
What Is Childhood Trauma?
Childhood trauma refers to emotionally or physically distressing events that occur during developmental years. Experts may refer to these potentially traumatic events that occur during childhood as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). These may include physical or sexual abuse, neglect, witnessing violence, or experiencing the loss of a loved one.
Unfortunately, ACEs are more common than many realize. According to the CDC, approximately 64% of adults in the United States report experiencing at least one type of ACE before the age of 18. Even more concerning, nearly one in six adults (17.3%) reveal they have endured four or more types of ACEs.1
Trauma can shake a child’s sense of safety and trust, leaving deep emotional and psychological wounds. Without the proper support, these experiences can continue to impact their behavior, relationships, and mental well-being for years to come.
What Are the Dangers of Untreated Trauma?
When trauma goes unaddressed, it can lead to a variety of mental health struggles. Untreated trauma often fosters maladaptive coping strategies, such as dissociation or substance abuse, and fuels conditions like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Here are some ways untreated trauma can manifest:
- Feeling constantly stressed – It can feel like your brain is always on high alert, making it hard to unwind or concentrate
- Struggling with sleep – Many trauma survivors deal with insomnia or nightmares that disrupt rest
- Challenges in relationships – Building trust and closeness with others can feel overwhelming at times
- Physical struggles – Things like headaches, digestive problems, or other health issues often show up, too
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine (AJPM), supported by the CDC in partnership with the Association of Teachers of Preventive Medicine (APTR), highlights a significant link between exposure to ACEs—such as abuse or household dysfunction—and numerous risk factors for some of the leading causes of adult mortality. Behaviors like substance abuse, overeating, or risky sexual activities—which people may consciously or unconsciously adopt as coping mechanisms—create the connection. Children exposed to high levels of ACEs are also likely to develop feelings of anxiety, anger, and depression. In adulthood, when behaviors such as substance abuse prove effective in alleviating these feelings, they are more likely to become habitual over time.
Recognizing and addressing trauma is crucial to preventing these long-term effects. It’s never too late to seek support, and therapeutic options are available to help individuals process their experiences.
What Is Dissociation?
Dissociation is the brain’s way of stepping away from overwhelming experiences. It can feel like “spacing out” during stress or becoming emotionally numb as a survival tool in response to trauma. While this defense mechanism can be helpful in the moment, it becomes problematic when it develops into a chronic response.
Common symptoms of dissociation include:
- Feeling disconnected from your body or surroundings (depersonalization or derealization)
- Memory gaps, such as forgetting entire events
- Difficulty maintaining awareness or concentration
- Feeling emotionally detached even in high-stress situations
For many, dissociation can interfere with daily activities, relationships, and work. Addressing it through mental health care can help in regaining control and improving quality of life.
Does All Trauma Develop Into PTSD?
Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. The likelihood of PTSD depends on several factors, such as the severity of the trauma, genetic predisposition, and the availability of support systems.
Even without PTSD, people can still carry unprocessed trauma. This can show up as anxiety, depression, or behaviors like avoidance and dissociation. It’s important to remember that everyone responds to trauma differently—there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to heal.
If you’re going through a tough time, getting support through trauma-focused therapy or PTSD treatment can really help—even if you don’t have an official PTSD diagnosis.
How PTSD Treatment Can Help
Treating PTSD and trauma-related conditions often involves a combination of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet the client’s needs. Some evidence-based therapies include:
- Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
At Northeast Health Services, our compassionate team of professionals provides customized care to address trauma and dissociation. We believe no single therapeutic approach works for everyone, so we offer various treatments to support you on your healing journey.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing with Northeast Health Services in Massachusetts
Childhood trauma and dissociation don’t have to dictate your future. By seeking treatment with Northeast Health Services and beginning your mental health journey, you can address the effects of trauma, improve your quality of life, and regain a sense of safety and connection.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.
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