Developmental Trauma

Developmental trauma refers to the emotional, psychological, or physical harm experienced during critical developmental periods in childhood, often resulting from adverse experiences. It can affect a child’s ability to develop normally, leading to lasting impacts on their emotional, cognitive, and social well-being.

Causes of Developmental Trauma may include

  • Abuse (physical, emotional, sexual by a care giver or trusted adult)
  • Neglect
  • Domestic violence (witnessing or experiencing in the home)
  • Parental substance abuse or mental health illness
  • Separation or loss
  • Bullying and/or discrimination
  • Severe Illness or trauma

Symptoms of developmental trauma can be varied and affect different areas of life. Symptoms may present differently in children compared to adults but can often share similar themes.

Symptoms of Developmental Trauma may include

  • Anxiety and fear
  • Depression
  • Anger and irritability
  • Low self-esteem
  • Self-harming behaviours
  • Cognitive symptoms
  • Memory/concentration issues
  • Isolation
  • Attachment problems
  • Sleep disturbances

Healing from developmental trauma is possible with the right support and interventions. Treatment usually involves a combination of therapies and approaches to help individuals manage symptoms, build healthier coping mechanisms, and address the root causes of trauma.

Treatments for Developmental Trauma

  • Psychotherapy (Talking Therapies)
  • Medication (Where appropriate, certain medications can help manage symptoms associated with trauma, including anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation)
  • Lifestyle and self-care

Help Lines

Samaritans

116 123 

Shout 

If you would prefer not to talk but want some mental health support, you could text SHOUT to 85258. Shout offers a confidential 24/7 text service providing support if you are in crisis and need immediate help.

Papyrus HOPELINEUK

0800 068 41 41
88247 (text)
pat@papyrus-uk.org
papyrus-uk.org
Confidential support for under-35s at risk of suicide and others who are concerned about them. Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)

0800 58 58 58
thecalmzone.net
Provides a helpline, online and WhatsApp chat, as well as information and support, for anyone affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts.

SANEline

If you’re experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10pm every day).

Nightline 

www.nightline.ac.uk

If you’re a student, you can look to see if your university or college offers a night-time listening service. Nightline phone operators are all students too.

NHS 111 – urgent mental health helpline

You can contact NHS 111 any time to access support for your health. To get urgent mental health support, call 111 and select option 2.

If you feel that you are unable to keep yourself safe, or if you feel you are at risk to yourself or others, then please contact 999 or visit your local Accident and Emergency (A&E)