Trauma

What is trauma?

Trauma refers to an emotional, psychological or physical response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event. It can come from a single overwhelming experience or from ongoing stress over time.

How can trauma impact young girls?

Every child is different, but there are common patterns that show up when a young girl experiences something overwhelming

Emotional effects

Young girls may:

• Become more anxious or fearful, especially about separation from caregivers

• Show mood swings or sudden crying

• Appear numb, withdrawn or shut down

Behavioural changes

Trauma can change how a child acts, such as:

• Regression with key milestones like bedwetting, clinginess, baby talk

• Acting out physically, aggression, aggression

• Avoiding certain places, people or activities

Cognitive effects

Trauma impacts how the developing brain processes information:

• Trouble learning or focusing at school

• Memory issues

• Confusion or difficulty making decisions

• Negative beliefs about themselves

Physical symptoms

Stress from trauma can show in the body

• Stomach pains, headaches

• Sleep problems, nightmares

• Fatigue

• Changes in appetite

Social effects

Young girls may struggle with:

• Trusting others

• Forming healthy relationships/friendships

• Feeling safe around adults

• Being overly guarded