Hidden Wounds: Understanding and Supporting Young Adult Trauma Survivors
by Jack Vaughan
When it comes to helping at-risk young adults, it can be easy to focus on the obvious signs of disconcerting behaviors. We tend to zero in on the flask hidden under the couch or the rolling papers in the backpack, but what is far less obvious is what might be motivating these behaviors and where they could be stemming from. The reality today is that the vast majority of young adults are carrying the hidden wounds of trauma, and it is having far-reaching effects on their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. In recent years, research has shed some fascinating light on the prevalence of traumatic experiences among young adults and the importance of providing timely care and support.
The Prevalence of Trauma in Young Adulthood
Studies have consistently shown that traumatic experiences are alarmingly common among young adults. Estimates suggest that up to 85% of individuals in this age group have experienced at least one traumatic event, such as childhood maltreatment, sexual assault, intimate partner violence, or community violence (Overstreet et al., 2017; Perkonigg et al., 2021). The high prevalence of trauma exposure in young adulthood is particularly concerning, as this is a critical period of development when individuals are navigating identity formation, establishing social relationships, and pursuing academic and career goals.
The Impact on Mental Health
Trauma exposure in young adulthood can have significant and long-lasting effects on mental health. Young adult trauma survivors are at increased risk of developing a range of mental health disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse (Breslau et al., 2014; Meyers et al., 2018). And such experiences can disrupt key developmental tasks, such as identity formation, social relationships, and academic/career pursuits (McGinley & Varchenko-Shemesh, 2021; Wright et al., 2018). These conditions can interfere with daily functioning, impair relationships, and hinder personal and professional growth. Moreover, untreated trauma-related symptoms can persist well into adulthood, underscoring the importance of early intervention and ongoing support.
Risk Factors and Vulnerability
While anyone can experience trauma, certain factors can increase a young adult's vulnerability to developing trauma-related symptoms. Prior trauma exposure, lack of social support, and pre-existing mental health conditions can each increase the vulnerability of developing trauma-related symptoms in young adulthood (Gollub et al., 2019; McLaughlin et al., 2020). Additionally, young adults from marginalized communities, such as LGBTQ+ individuals and racial/ethnic minorities, can face unique challenges related to discrimination and systemic oppression that compound the impact of trauma.
Promoting Resilience and Coping
Despite the significant challenges posed by trauma, research has also highlighted the remarkable resilience of young adult survivors. Studies have identified several factors that promote adaptive coping and positive outcomes, including strong social support networks, the ability to find meaning in adversity, and engagement in therapy. As a parent, you can play a crucial role in fostering resilience by providing a safe, supportive environment, encouraging open communication, and helping your young adult children access the resources they need to heal and thrive.
The Path to Healing
Evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), have shown promise in reducing trauma-related symptoms among young adults (Karatzias et al., 2019; Yalch & Black, 2021). These interventions typically involve helping individuals process traumatic memories, develop coping skills, and the ability to challenge negative beliefs related to the trauma. Young adult trauma survivors can also benefit from connecting with a trauma informed mentor who can curate opportunities specifically designed to help their mentee process and overcome trauma. Mentors can also share their methods of overcoming their own personal traumas with their mentees and help them feel meaningfully connected to another person who has faced similar adversity.
Looking Forward
While the journey of healing is rarely linear or without difficulty, there is hope for young adult trauma survivors and their families. With the right support, resources, and treatment, young adults can learn to manage their symptoms, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives.
At YPM, we have had the privilege of working with numerous trauma survivors and their families. With bespoke services and state-of-the-art care, YPM is here to help young adults and their families develop the skills required to move beyond past traumas and achieve their potential.
Connect with us today and learn more about the unique ways in which YPM is helping young adults and adolescents overcome adversity and activate their potential.