Navigating Childhood Trauma
According to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) over two-thirds of children report experiencing at least one traumatic event by age 16. Additionally, at least 1 in 7 children experience abuse or neglect annually in the U.S.
Childhood trauma is a deeply personal and widespread issue. Whether caused by abuse, neglect, the loss of a loved one, or chronic instability, the effects of childhood trauma can unfortunately continue well into adulthood, unless properly dressed. Childhood trauma shapes how individuals perceive the world, themselves, and others. For survivors and those supporting them, understanding trauma and knowing how to address it can be an important step toward healing and resilience.
This article discusses the roots and recognition of childhood trauma, the efforts in place to combat it, and actionable steps we can all take to help.
What is Childhood Trauma?
Childhood trauma refers to any emotionally painful or distressing experience that disrupts a child’s sense of safety, security, and relationship stability. Traumatic experiences can vary. Some examples include:
- Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- Neglect or abandonment
- Witnessing domestic violence
- Chronic exposure to parental addiction or mental illness
- Experiencing severe poverty, bullying, or discrimination
For children, these experiences can significantly delay emotional development, damage trust, and lead to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) later in life. Adopting trauma-informed practices is essential to breaking the cycle of harm and creating environments where children can heal and grow.
Families United Network’s Trauma-Informed Approach
Organizations like Families United Network (FUN) are integral to creating safe spaces for children, especially those in the foster care system. FUN is dedicated to adopting trauma-informed practices, which prioritize children’s emotional well-being and account for their past traumatic experiences.
By using trauma-informed approaches, Families United Network helps children rebuild trust in relationships and develop self-worth. This commitment ensures that every foster child is treated with empathy as well as respect and surrounded by people who understand the ways that trauma shapes behavior and needs. Foster parents, caseworkers, and support teams receive training to identify trauma responses and offer care that fosters healing and growth.
What It Means to Be Creating PRESENCE Certified
An important part of Families United Network’s work involves alignment with the Creating PRESENCE model, developed by trauma expert Dr. Sandra Bloom. PRESENCE certification equips organizations with practical tools for fostering a truly resilient, trauma-informed environment.
What is Creating PRESENCE?
Creating PRESENCE is a framework designed to address trauma within organizations. Just as trauma impacts individuals, it also shapes workplace culture and dynamics. By implementing the PRESENCE framework, organizations can understand, address, and adapt to the needs of their members—including children, staff, and wider communities.
Key aspects of Creating PRESENCE include:
- Discovering Needs: Understanding what employees and individuals require to feel supported and valued.
- Addressing Challenges: Identifying barriers to trust, collaboration, and growth.
- Building Practical Skills: Developing trauma-informed practices like empathy-driven communication and compassionate leadership.
- Transforming Together: Implementing trauma-responsive practices internally to create a supportive, purposeful environment.
With PRESENCE certification, organizations align their systems with a philosophy of healing and mutual growth. Families United Network’s adoption of this model ensures their work remains cutting-edge, effective, and above all, compassionate.
What Can We Do to Help Children Affected by Childhood Trauma?
If you’re reading this article as a mental health advocate, caregiver, or concerned individual, you may wonder how you can contribute to the fight against childhood trauma. The good news? Small actions can create meaningful and lasting change.
Educate Yourself on Trauma-Informed Practices
Understanding trauma is the first step toward creating supportive environments. Familiarize yourself with the principles of trauma-informed care, including:
- Prioritizing emotional safety
- Building trust through consistent interactions
- Encouraging autonomy and self-advocacy
Spread Awareness
Share information about childhood trauma and its effects with your community. Whether it’s social media posts, joining in National Child Abuse Prevention Month campaigns, or advocating for trauma-informed practices in local schools, your voice matters.
Volunteer or Donate
Organizations like Families United Network thrive on community support. Look into volunteer opportunities or consider donating to causes that promote trauma recovery and prevention.
Advocate for Foster Care Reform
Children in foster care are particularly vulnerable to experiencing trauma. Advocating for policies that improve the quality of care, provide mental health services, and offer support for foster families can make a significant difference.
Support Positive Parenting Practices
If you’re a parent or caregiver, creating nurturing environments at home can break cycles of trauma. Be patient, communicative, and aware of how your own actions affect children’s emotional development.
Building a Future of Trust, Growth, and Resilience
Childhood trauma may leave lasting scars, but with the right framework and community support, healing is possible. From national awareness campaigns like the blue pinwheel to trauma-informed care initiatives like Creating PRESENCE, efforts are underway to make certain that no child has to face trauma alone.
We each have a role to play. Whether it’s first and foremost, educating ourselves, raising awareness, or simply being compassionate listeners, every small action contributes to a larger wave of change. Together, we can create a world where children are empowered to thrive, families are supported, and trauma’s devastating cycle is finally broken.