When most people consider childhood trauma, they picture something dramatic—abuse, a catastrophic accident, or some type of life-shattering incident. Trauma does not, however, always show up that way. Sometimes it’s subtle and sneaky, like growing up in an environment where one parent’s needs always came first, or in which emotions were not expressed. And although trauma can feel quite lonely, the truth is that it’s really more common than most of us realize.
Let’s look at figures. Studies have found without question that two-thirds of adults have experienced at least one Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE). Most individuals you know—your friends, colleagues, even you—have therefore experienced some kind of childhood adversity. Even more striking is that one in eight adults suffer four or more ACEs. This is important since persons with higher ACE scores have much more chance of developing chronic physical, mental, even spiritual health problems.
Even worse is that although already startling, these figures might actually be underestimates. Much research conducted since the first ACE study has indicated an even greater frequency of childhood trauma. But why? Because they’ve broadened the definition of trauma, examined more varied populations, and acknowledged how subtly occurring, institutionalized types of trauma—such as emotional neglect or societal discrimination—factor in.
What Exactly Are ACEs and CCT?
If you’re not familiar, ACEs—adverse childhood experiences—include things like:
- Physical, psychological, or sexual abuse.
- Neglect, either physical or emotional.
- Household dysfunction, including living with a parent who battles mental illness or addiction, or engages in domestic violence.
First examined in the 1990s, studies of these events produced startling results. ACEs weren’t only “bad memories” or incidents people “got over” as they grew older researchers found. Rather, these experiences had a deep, long-lasting effect on emotional and physical well-being.
Let’s now layer-in the childhood complex trauma (CCT) concept. Unlike one-time events, CCT consists of continuous stresses—things like chronic neglect, protracted bullying, or an unstable home environment. While ACEs concentrate on certain types of adversity, CCT zooms out to highlight how ongoing trauma causes deeper wounds, sometimes leaving people struggling with identity, self-worth, and relationship issues long into adulthood.
Trauma Is More Common Than You Think
The earliest ACE research produced some startling numbers:
- At least one ACE affects 67% of adults.
- Those who’ve had four or more ACEs, leading to a greatly increased risk for problems like heart disease, depression, and addiction, account for 12.6% of adults.
- ACEs increase a person’s chance for chronic health issues, emotional regulation difficulties, even spiritual alienation.
Researchers have expanded on these discoveries since then, and their data is much more sobering:
- Studies examining more varied populations, including those outside the United States, have revealed higher rates of adversity—particularly in communities suffering systematic inequality, poverty, or historical persecution.
- Including “covert” forms of trauma, such as emotional neglect or perfectionistic parenting, the figures climb far higher.
Consider this for just a moment. If you suffer with anxiety, chronic pain, or a residual sense of disconnection, early trauma is the most likely driver of your experiences. And you’re not by yourself.
Trauma’s Hidden Toll on Health
Why then does trauma from years past still affect individuals now? The key is our bodies’ and brains’ wiring. Trauma gets stored in your nervous system, immune system, and even hormones; it doesn’t just “live in your head.” With time, this can cause major medical problems.
Those having four or more ACEs have been shown by studies to be:
- Twice as likely as most to develop heart disease.
- More than twice as likely to suffer with depression.
- More likely to have autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, even diabetes.
The effects of trauma are not restricted to the mental and physical either. Many childhood complex trauma survivors say they struggle to trust people and themselves, and feel cut off from their sense of purpose. Just as much as the physical or psychological symptoms, this spiritual damage can be profoundly debilitating.
Why We Don’t Talk About It Enough
Though trauma is quite common, many people don’t see themselves as “trauma survivors.” Why is that? Here are some reasons:
- Denial or normalizing: “That’s just how things were when I grew up.” Many people discount their experiences as they don’t fit their definition of “bad enough.”
- Cultural stigma: In many families or cultures, discussing pain or emotions still feels forbidden.
- Systemic blind spots: Particularly with hidden forms like emotional neglect, healthcare and educational systems sometimes overlook the indicators of trauma.
The outcome? Trauma is still hidden and underappreciated even if it shapes the life of countless people.
Why This Matters
The first step in breaking the silence is realizing how common ACEs and CCT are. It’s not only about numbers; it’s about realizing you’re not “broken” or “weak,” whether you’re coping with anxiety, chronic sickness, or a sense of disconnection. You can start to address the weight of unresolved trauma you’ve long been bearing.
It also relates to societal change. Understanding the prevalence of trauma helps us to create systems—in community assistance, education, or healthcare—that truly address its effects. Childhood complex trauma is a public health crisis, not only a personal one.
Takeaway: You’re Not Alone
If nothing else, this post should leave you with the knowledge that trauma is far more prevalent than most people know and it has real, actual impacts. You’re not alone, though, and there are approaches for healing.
We’ll delve deeper in future postings into how trauma shows itself in your body, mind, and spirit, as well as discuss doable strategies for healing. For now though, stop and take a minute to reflect. If any of this resonates with you, know that you’re already taking an important step by learning more.