Understanding Generational Trauma

It’s when the pain or trauma experienced by one generation gets passed down to the next, and it doesn’t just vanish—it sticks around, showing up in the way people feel, think, and act. It’s like a ripple effect that spreads from one person to the next, often without anyone knowing why they’re feeling the way they do.

At its core, generational trauma is when the trauma experienced by one person doesn’t just affect them—it affects their kids, grandkids, and even beyond that. Whether it's abuse, neglect, loss, or just a lot of emotional pain, the effects can show up in different ways. Kids of parents who’ve gone through trauma might end up repeating the same patterns, often without realizing it. It’s like carrying around an invisible backpack full of weight you didn’t put there, but it still affects how you move through life.

For example, if a parent grew up in an environment full of stress, violence, or emotional neglect, they may unintentionally pass that down. Even if they try their best, the trauma they went through can show up in the way they parent, how they handle relationships, or how they take care of themselves mentally and physically.

Generational trauma can have a huge impact, often showing up in ways that don’t seem connected at first. It might affect mental health, relationships, and even physical health. People who grow up in environments with unresolved trauma often find themselves struggling with things like anxiety, depression, or feeling disconnected in their relationships. They might find it hard to trust others or struggle to form close connections because that emotional baggage weighs them down.

And it doesn’t stop at mental health. Trauma can even affect your body—things like chronic stress can lead to physical health problems, too. You might find that you carry tension in your body, or have trouble managing your health, without knowing why.

Generational trauma might feel like an impossible cycle, but it’s not. You can heal from it, and in doing so, you break the cycle for future generations. It starts with recognizing that this trauma exists and taking small steps to heal. Whether it’s seeking help, building healthier relationships, or practicing self-care, every step you take brings you closer to breaking free.

The most important thing to remember is that healing isn’t linear—it takes time, and that’s okay. But by acknowledging the trauma, understanding how it affects you, and taking active steps to heal, you can create a new chapter in your family’s story.

Kylee J Peters