Trauma affects everyone.
It’s impacting our families
and communities right now.
What is trauma?
Trauma is broader and more common than people realize. It is an emotional response to a terrible event, whether it’s abuse, neglect, a severe accident, a natural disaster or other intense occurrence.
At FamilyForward, we focus on developmental trauma. This is trauma that takes place early in a child’s life, and the resulting stress response disrupts the development of the brain. We are equipped to consider each child’s unique biological and genetic traits, relational experiences and personality characteristics to provide the care they need.
Knowing the truth about developmental trauma and abuse is part of the battle to address their effects in our communities.
Misconception: Most children don’t experience trauma.
Reality: More than two thirds of children reported experiencing at least one traumatic event by age 16.
Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Misconception: Childhood abuse and neglect are a thing of the past.
Reality: At least 1 in 7 children have experienced abuse and/or neglect in the past year, and this is likely an underestimate.
Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Misconception: Childhood abuse doesn’t impact our community.
Reality: During the fiscal year 2021, 16,984 children in the St. Louis area were reported to the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline.
Misconception: Abuse ends after childhood.
Reality: 40% of child abuse victims also report experiencing domestic violence as adults.
Learn more about how our unique approach
and programs address developmental trauma:
Strengthening Family Bonds
May 15th marks the International Day of Families, a moment to reflect on issues impacting families around the world and to promote ways to strengthen familial bonds and support systems. Read how the FamilyForward team likes to strengthen bonds with their loved ones.
Healing Hearts
Trauma experienced by children in foster care disrupts their sense of security and affects their brains, behaviors, and emotions. Learn strategies foster and adoptive parents can use in their journey to heal the hearts of the children in their lives.
Handing Over the Baton: Partnering to Help Older Youth Develop Positive Healthcare Practices
Caring for older foster youth places a significant responsibility on foster parents to advocate for quality physical and mental healthcare. By adopting these tips, caregivers can create an environment that nurtures trust, openness, and shared decision-making, ultimately empowering the young person to take control of their healthcare while including caregivers as supportive partners along the way.
You’ve seen the numbers. You’ve seen what we can do to support struggling families. Take the next step and become an advocate for children and families in our communities.