Your childhood may be long past, but its influence is reflected in your present—it shapes how you see the world and how you interact with others.
Maybe you've noticed patterns you can't quite shake, like anxiety that won't settle. Or maybe you struggle with depth in relationships or find yourself overwhelmed because of your tendency to overachieve (or overextend).
All of these–and much more—can be related to childhood experiences. A groundbreaking study on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) revealed that early trauma can impact everything from mental health to chronic illness. Childhood adversity leaves a lasting imprint, not just emotionally but physically, too.
"Trauma changes who you are inside," said Patty Wagenhofer, LMSW, a therapist at Unity Counseling in Grand Rapids. "But it's not about 'what's wrong with you.' It's about what happened to you."
The good news is that you have the power to change. As a trauma survivor herself, Wagenhofer offers hope to others. "You can heal, she said. "You can experience relief, happiness and joy."
What Are ACEs?
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) refer to 10 specific types of childhood adversity, categorized into abuse, neglect and household dysfunction. These include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; neglect; and growing up with caregiver-related challenges like substance abuse, mental illness, domestic violence or incarceration.
But trauma isn't limited to these categories.
"It's important to examine past or current stressors that could be affecting your overall health and daily functioning," said Wagenhofer. "Typically, there's a connection."
Recognizing the Effects of ACEs
The landmark ACEs study found that individuals with a score of four or more were:
- 12 times more likely to attempt suicide.
- 7 times more likely to develop alcohol dependence.
- 10 times more likely to use intravenous drugs.
- At significantly higher risk for anxiety, depression and chronic illness.
Beyond these risks, ongoing research in neuroscience and epigenetics shows that childhood trauma can have generational effects. It's linked to chronic stress, difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, and physical health issues like heart disease, sleep disturbances and stroke.
Trauma manifests differently for everyone. Some struggle with trust or self-worth, while others develop perfectionism, people-pleasing tendencies or a persistent fear of failure. Even experiences like childhood bullying—often dismissed—can leave deep emotional scars.
"Bullying can have lasting effects well into adulthood," Wagenhofer noted. "If you're struggling, you may still carry the child who was scared and scarred. That's why people often turn to numbing behaviors."
Despite these challenges, healing is attainable.
"It's truly possible to overcome and resolve your trauma," reassured Wagenhofer.
Steps Toward Healing
"People can heal through various pathways," Wagenhofer said. "Therapy is one avenue, but there are other things that people can do." Self-care practices like yoga or running can help, as can fostering meaningful connections and building a strong support system. Making healthy lifestyle choices can also play a role.
For those who choose therapy, working with a trauma-informed professional can help process painful experiences and develop healthier coping strategies.
"One of the most valuable aspects of therapy is getting thoughts out of your head and shifting your perspective," Wagenhofer explained. "That's important because shifting perspective can quiet the noise in your mind, allowing you to move forward."
Writing or confiding in a trusted friend can offer similar relief.
Many find that trauma-focused therapies—such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or somatic therapy—help them reprocess painful memories and build healthier coping mechanisms.
"It's about reframing the experience so it no longer has power over you," Wagenhofer said.
Moving Toward a Brighter Future
As you begin your journey, keep in mind that healing isn't linear. It will take time, but by prioritizing your well-being and using the tools available, you have the power to create a healthier emotional future.
"The most important takeaway," Wagenhofer stressed, "is that healing is possible. You can move forward. You can find meaning and purpose."
The Lasting Impact of ACEs
Childhood trauma increases the risk of:
- Alcohol and drug abuse, which raises the likelihood of smoking
- Depression and anxiety
- A sedentary lifestyle, contributing to obesity
- Employment challenges
- Chronic health issues, including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, GI problems, sleep disturbances, and strokes
- Contracting an STD/STI
- Suicide attempts
Looking for a Therapist?
The Psychology Today website is a great place to start. Many therapists offer free 15-minute consultations to help you find the right fit.
Kirsetin Morello is a Michigan-based author, speaker, writer, travel-lover, wife and grateful mom of three boys. Read more about her at www.KirsetinMorello.com.
This article originally appeared in the Apr/May '25 issue of West Michigan Woman.
