Stress; Are you dealing with generational trauma?

By Manuela Gomez

Generational or (integrational) trauma is a phrase that you might be hearing recently being thrown around but, do you truly know what it means. It is trauma that can be passed down through generations by epigenetics, when genes change how they work but the DNA sequence stays the same. It can be baggage brought from one generation onto the next. Coming from a family with this type of trauma can cause many negative outcomes which can include Stress. When dealing with your close loved ones, stress can become a common factor in your life. Trying to identify if your family has generational trauma look for these:

• Emotional dysregulation/Inconsistent relationships
• Emotional abuse
• Depression
• Shame or Guilt
• Always on edge ( waiting for the other shoe to drop)

 The first big step you can take is recognizing that the trauma that you have can be inherited. After identifying the generational trauma you can then start to work on the stress that you have. Your body was in flight or fight mode constantly and now you know why and due to what trauma. According to the American Psychological Association we see how parents after experiencing a traumatic event, can pass on their fear and prevent future generations from finding new ways. Getting professional help can also apply to you; stress can become chronic if not addressed. Help the future generations by breaking this unhealthy cycle.

Source: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/02/legacy-trauma

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/