The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
Trauma and Its Impact on Children and Their Families
-
In recent years the impact of trauma and toxic stress across the life course has been well documented with input from scientists in the fields of neuroscience, genetics, immunology, psychology and epidemiology.
Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to individual traumatic events, but even more so to chronic or toxic stress, which impacts physical, cognitive, emotional and social development. The developmental impact in turn effects health and mental health outcomes throughout the life course.
-
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released an infographic that summarizes information about trauma and its impact on children.
A user friendly tool developed by the Washtenaw Trauma Informed Collaborative:
Your Child: How Stress Impacts Brain Growth, Development & Behavior
Your Child: How Stress Impacts Brain Growth, Development & Behavior
Important Reminder
-
Please note that viewing information about trauma may remind you of events in your life and cause uncomfortable feelings. If those feelings are very difficult or last a long time, be sure to seek help from someone you trust or a professional helper.