What is Childhood Trauma?

Childhood trauma can leave lasting scars, not just on your heart but also on your mind and body. Trauma is any event that overwhelms a child’s ability to cope—be it abuse, neglect, or even witnessing violence. As an African American woman who’s walked this road, I know firsthand how those experiences can follow you into adulthood. But we don’t have to stay stuck. Healing is possible.

According to a study from the American Psychological Association, children who experience trauma age faster both physically and mentally. Dr. Katie McLoughlin’s research, published in August 2020, found that childhood trauma can make the brain and body age more quickly. In fact, children exposed to trauma were found to hit puberty earlier and show accelerated cellular aging. This means trauma isn’t just something that affects your emotions; it gets under your skin, shaping your very biology.

But here’s the good news: though trauma may have sped up the aging process, you can take control of your healing journey. I’ve learned that God has a plan for restoration. While trauma tried to steal my peace and joy, I’m reclaiming my power. Healing is possible when we lean into faith, therapy, and community.

For those of you who have also walked this path, know this: God sees your pain. You are not alone. Let this be the season where you start to heal and grow, breaking free from the chains of the past. Remember, what happened to you does not define you.

Together, let’s rise above the trauma and walk boldly toward the future God has for us—One of Power, Love, and Sound Minds.