Intergenerational Trauma

Intergenerational trauma is a concept developed to help explain years of generational challenges within families. It is the transmission (or sending down to younger generations) of the oppressive or traumatic effects of a historical event. Examples of intergenerational trauma are domestic violence, alcohol and drug addiction, child abuse and neglect refuges, and survivors of combat trauma and war related trauma. This type of trauma often goes unrecognized. This allows the cycle to continue. Common symptoms includes low self-esteem, depression , anxiety, insomnia, anger, and self-destructive behaviors. Sleep disturbances, substance abuse disorders, numbing and detachment, respiratory symptoms, and much affects a person. Children may experience difficult with attachment, disconnection from their extended families and culture and high levels of stress from family and community members who are dealing with the impacts of trauma. Breaking generational trauma is about building resilience through and loving communication between generations is one of the best ways to loosen generational trauma’s grip. Healing happens when family members speak up and work through any hurt, pain, or abuse from the past. Having an open and honest communication can open up channels of healing and foster resilience amidst family adversity. Children of trauma survivors must be willing to work through their family’s trauma in order to help break the cycle. If you’re working through intergenerational trauma connecting with a mental health professional can have benefits. A trauma informed therapist can help you begin to heal by : listening to your experiences and sharing insights into trauma responses.