Your Childhood Issues May Not Spill Into Adulthood

The thought that kids are resilient is somewhat true when it comes to psychiatric issues in their childhood.

A recent Journal of American Medical Association study found that some childhood psychiatric issues can linger into adulthood, but Desiree Romaguera, PsyD, psychologist at the Mildred and Frank Feinberg Division of the Unified Behavioral Health Center for Military Veterans and Their Families in Bay Shore, says “a difficult life does not guarantee maladjustment or a failure to thrive in adulthood.” The study found that children who had a psychiatric disorder in youth had six times higher odds of having an issue as an adult.

Dr. Romaguera notes that children who experience several adversities and/or traumas might need specialized treatment to deal with potential arising issues.

“Troubling experiences challenge children in ways that pull for resources a child may not have yet developed or may not have access to,” Dr. Romaguera said. “Trauma, in particular, is known to change the brain of a children or an adult.”

If a child has strong role models who are available and accessible for them, this can help mitigate the effects of traumas and other negative experiences, Dr. Romaguera said. If they also seek treatment for issues, this can help as well.

“A diagnosis is not a life sentence, and research has shown the resilience of children and human beings in general, especially if they seek and obtain help,” Dr. Romaguera said.

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