A significant Australian study found that childhood trauma is far more common—and much more destructive— than previously thought. According to researchers at the University of Sydney, 42 per cent of Australian adults, or well over eight million people, have suffered at least one traumatic event as children. According to research published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, individuals who experienced early trauma are 50% more likely to acquire a mental health illness or substance use disease later in life.

According to the study, these adults are more likely to experience anxiety, despair, and panic disorders, and, dangerously, more than one in ten will try suicide. The experts point out that trauma frequently strikes at a heartbreakingly early age. According to the authors, "On average, half of the traumatic events occurred before the age of 10," with some children as young as six recalling experiences such as the unexpected death of a loved one, sexual assault, or seeing domestic violence or serious injuries. 

"This is a national wake-up call," stated Dr Lucy Grummitt of the Matilda Centre. "The scale and lifelong impacts of childhood trauma in Australia demand urgent attention from policymakers, service providers, and the community." 

The study evaluated data from 15,893 Australians who participated in the 2020-2022 National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing. Researchers examined 26 different forms of traumatic events, ranging from abuse, neglect, and domestic violence to natural disasters, serious sickness, war exposure, and major accidents. Importantly, the authors argue that the problem may be even larger than the data implies, given the study did not include those facing homelessness, incarceration, or living in distant First Nations areas. 

Associate Professor Emma Barrett stated that the study broadens our understanding of trauma beyond the typically studied kinds. "Our study offers new insights into how early adversity shapes health across our lifetimes," according to her. 

The repercussions go well beyond mental health. The researchers discovered robust correlations between childhood trauma and chronic illnesses like asthma, cancer, arthritis, and kidney disease. "Trauma isn't just a childhood issue; it can be a lifelong health issue," said Grummitt. 

Unaddressed trauma also costs the country money, an estimated $9.1 billion yearly. The authors believe that trauma-informed care should be integrated throughout the health, education, and justice systems. Schools, they say, are vital. "Two in five children will have experienced a traumatic event by the time they finish school," Dr Grummitt stated. Many of these youngsters are punished for trauma-related behaviour, which exacerbates their distress. "Responding with care and support can change a child's life." 

Experts are now advocating for national action to prioritise early interventions, teacher training, and trauma-informed care throughout the system. "We need to invest more in early intervention and prevention," Dr Grummitt stated.