Intergenerational is a term used to describe relationships between people of different generations, typically between younger and older generations. Intergenerational trauma is trauma that is passed down through generations, often due to traumatic events experienced by an ancestor. It can manifest in physical, mental, and emotional symptoms affecting a person’s health and well-being.
How Does Intergenerational Trauma Appear
Intergenerational trauma is the transmission of emotional and psychological trauma from one generation to the next. It can manifest in a variety of ways, including physical and mental illness, substance abuse, emotional instability, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. It can also be expressed in a person's tendency to avoid difficult conversations or topics or to become easily overwhelmed or triggered by certain issues or environments. On a larger scale, it can cause a cultural mistrust of outsiders or the government or a reluctance to seek help or support.
Also read: Five Signs You Are Stuck In a Trauma Bond
What Causes Intergenerational trauma
Intergenerational trauma is caused by traumatic events that occur in one generation and are then passed down to the next. This can include physical and emotional trauma that is experienced through war, genocide, colonisation, displacement, cultural oppression, poverty, and discrimination. These events can cause long-term psychological, physical, and social effects that are passed down through generations.
Genetics And Intergenerational Trauma
Intergenerational transmission is the passing down of values, beliefs, and behaviours from one generation to the next. Research has shown that familial patterns of behaviour, values, and beliefs are linked to genetics, as well as environmental and social factors. For example, a person’s environment, such as their family and peers, can influence their behaviour, values, and beliefs. In addition, parenting styles, educational experiences, and economic backgrounds can influence the development and transmission of intergenerational values, beliefs, and behaviours.
Therefore, genetics and intergenerational transmission are closely intertwined, as genetics can influence the development and transmission of values, beliefs, and behaviours. Furthermore, environmental and social factors also play a role in the development and transmission of intergenerational values, beliefs, and behaviours.
Healing From Intergenerational Trauma
Healing from intergenerational trauma can be a long and difficult process. It is important to remember that healing is possible and that there are resources available to provide support.
It is important to be aware of the potential trauma that has been passed down through generations. It is helpful to learn about the history of the family and the experiences of previous generations. This knowledge can provide insight into how trauma affects current generations.
Also read: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
Once there is an understanding of the trauma, it is important to talk to a trusted mental health professional or therapist to help process the trauma and work towards healing. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore emotions and help develop healthier coping mechanisms.
In addition to therapy, there are a number of other resources that can help in the healing process. Other resources include mindfulness practices, meditation, yoga, and writing exercises.
It is also important to remember that healing is a process, and it is okay to take it one day at a time. With patience and support, healing from intergenerational trauma is possible.
