Fact sheets

Having been abused, neglected or exploited, or experiencing repeated violence can leave you struggling to just feel okay. Some people with complex trauma experiences have never felt okay.

Many survivors find it hard to manage their distress or soothe themselves. That’s because complex trauma, especially from childhood makes managing everyday stress difficult.

Trauma activates the stress response. This is known as a fight, flight and freeze response. It can cause people to be agitated (hyper-aroused). It can also make people shut down (hypoaroused).

All of us need to take time out from stress. This includes the possible triggers of being around people. This is particularly important when we have experienced complex trauma, especially from childhood.

Caring for yourself is often challenging for people who have experienced complex trauma including childhood trauma and abuse. You don’t have to do anything complicated to care for yourself. You can do very simple things, whatever you can manage.