Historical and Generational Trauma: Lasting Effects on Mental Health

Historical and generational trauma can shape both mental and physical health across entire communities. At Sandia Therapy and Wellness Center in Albuquerque, our therapists understand how past events, family patterns, and cultural experiences impact wellness today. Recognizing this connection is an important step toward healing and breaking harmful cycles

Understanding Historical and Generational Trauma

Generational and historical trauma are terms used to describe the transmission of trauma from one generation to the next, as well as the impact of collective traumatic events on a group or culture. These types of trauma can have a significant impact on both physical and mental health and can be seen in a variety of cultural groups around the world.

One example of a cultural group that has experienced both generational and historical trauma is Indigenous communities. For centuries, Indigenous peoples have been subjected to colonization, forced relocation, and cultural genocide, resulting in trauma that has been passed down through the generations. This trauma has had a profound impact on the health and well-being of Indigenous communities, with higher rates of substance abuse, suicide, and other mental health issues being observed.

Another example of a cultural group that has experienced generational and historical trauma is black descendants of slavery. The legacy of slavery and ongoing systemic racism has contributed to a history of trauma that has been passed down through the generations. This trauma has been linked to higher rates of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, as well as mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

Epigenetics, the study of how genes can be turned on or off by environmental factors, may help explain how trauma can be passed down through the generations. Research has shown that traumatic events can alter the way genes are expressed, leading to changes in physical and mental health that can be passed down to future generations.

Recognizing and Healing from Historical Trauma

It is important to recognize the impact of generational and historical trauma on the health and well-being of cultural groups. Acknowledgment is the first step in healing, as it allows individuals and communities to validate their experiences rather than minimize them. From there, creating spaces for open dialogue, honoring cultural traditions, and seeking professional support can promote recovery.

At Sandia Therapy and Wellness Center in Albuquerque, our therapists provide compassionate care that helps individuals process the weight of inherited trauma while building resilience. By addressing these deep-rooted challenges, people can begin to break harmful cycles and move toward healthier futures for themselves and the generations that follow.