Do you ever wonder why certain fears or reactions seem to run in your family? Perhaps you've noticed yourself responding to situations in ways that mirror your parents or grandparents, even when those responses don't quite fit your own experiences. Maybe you carry anxieties or beliefs that seem to have no clear origin in your own life. As an online counsellor working with clients in the Reading area, I've seen how trauma can echo through generations, affecting families in profound ways.

What is Intergenerational Trauma?

Intergenerational trauma occurs when the effects of trauma experienced by one generation are passed down to subsequent generations. This isn't just about family stories or learned behaviours. Research shows that trauma can actually affect how our genes express themselves, potentially influencing our stress responses, emotional regulation, and even our physical health.

How It Shows Up

You might recognise intergenerational trauma in various ways. Perhaps there's a pattern of anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties that seems to run through your family. You might notice certain topics that are never discussed, particular responses to conflict that feel familiar across generations, or a general sense of unease that you can't quite explain.

These patterns often develop as survival mechanisms, passed down through generations as ways to cope with threat or danger. What once protected your ancestors might now be creating difficulties in your own life.

Breaking the Cycle

Understanding intergenerational trauma can be liberating. It helps explain patterns that might have felt confusing or shameful. More importantly, recognising these patterns means you can begin to break the cycle, preventing the trauma from continuing into future generations.

This work often involves exploring your family history, understanding your own responses, and developing new ways of coping that serve you better than inherited patterns.

As a counsellor, I've supported many clients in understanding and healing from intergenerational trauma. If you recognise these patterns in your own family and want to work towards breaking the cycle, I'm here to help.

Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a session. Together, we can explore your family patterns and develop strategies for creating healthier ways of being. Your journey towards healing can change not only your life but the lives of generations to come.