Toxic stress can occur when a child experiences severe and prolonged stress without enough support. This can lead to long-term health effects and can negatively affect their development.

Stress is the body’s natural response to a perceived threat or life event. It affects everyone to some extent and can help us to cope with challenges in our lives.

However, if we experience stress constantly and don’t get the right support, it can become toxic, affecting our functioning and overall well-being. This can significantly affect children and reduce their ability to develop coping skills during challenges and life events.

While all humans experience stress, children do not cope with it in the same way that adults do. When a child goes through a stressful situation, they need their parents or caregivers to act as a buffer and provide comfort and support. This can help to reduce negative effects on the mind and body.

If a child does not receive proper support after a stressful event, it can mean that they’re less likely to develop the skills needed to stop their body’s stress response. This can lead to toxic stress.

Toxic stress can occur if a child has an adverse childhood experience (ACE)Trusted Source. ACEs are highly stressful and sometimes traumatic situations that occur in those ages 0 to 17 years old.

Examples of ACEs include:

  • physical, sexual, and emotional abuse
  • emotional or physical neglect
  • witnessing violence at home
  • divorce or separation of parents or caregivers
  • living in a household where someone is experiencing mental health issues
  • living in a household with someone misusing substances
  • experiencing discrimination, such as racism
  • experiencing poverty or homelessness
  • experiencing the death of a parent or caregiver

What should you do if you suspect child abuse?

You may feel uncertain as to whether you should intervene if you suspect child abuse. But speaking up and reporting your concerns can help ensure the child gets the support and protection they need.

You can do this by calling 911. In most states, you can choose to make a report anonymously.

You can also call or text the National Child Abuse Hotline at 800-422-4453 or search the Child Welfare Gateway for state-specific legal guidelines.

Learn more about how to recognize the signs of abuse in children.

There are several signs that may help you identify if a child is experiencing toxic stress, such as:

  • appearing constantly anxious, on edge, or on high alert
  • becoming withdrawn, particularly in young children
  • engaging in harmful behavior, particularly in teenagers
  • having regular tantrums
  • wetting the bed or experiencing nightmares
  • finding it difficult to relax
  • getting easily agitated
  • finding it difficult to sleep
  • experiencing regular stomach pain and headaches

Toxic stress can have several negative health effects on a child’s mental, emotional, and physical health.

Studies show that experiencing trauma during the first 3 years of life can lead to an increased risk of developing health conditions that affect multiple bodily functions.

Childhood trauma has been associated with a greater risk of developing chronic conditions in adulthood, such as:

It can also affect a child’s mental health and lead to conditions and symptoms such as:

If a child is experiencing toxic stress, early intervention is vital. A healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician, can work with you to identify the proper support that is needed.

If a child has had an adverse childhood experience and you’ve spoken with a doctor, there are many additional ways you can support them. This includes ensuring that they:

  • get enough sleep each night in a safe and comfortable environment
  • eat a balanced diet that consists of enough nutrients to help them develop
  • have at least 60 minutesTrusted Source a day of activity to offset any stressors, such as making time for exercise through play
  • have space to speak about any concerns with a parent or guardian
  • learn how to relax and wind down, which may look like partaking in a gentle hobby after school

Above all, it’s important that a child feels safe and cared for. Take time to learn your child’s stress signals and help them understand how they can cope with and let go of stressors.

What are toxic stress symptoms?

Common toxic stress symptoms include feeling anxious, unable to sleep, and finding it difficult to relax.

What is the most common source of childhood toxic stress?

The most common source of childhood toxic stress is often abuse, which can lead to long-term negative effects on the mind and body.

How can I help my child cope with toxic stress?

If your child is experiencing toxic stress, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional such as a pediatrician. They can analyze a child’s symptoms and identify an effective treatment plan to ensure they get the right support.

When a child goes through a stressful situation, they need their parents or caregivers to act as a buffer and provide comfort and support. This can help to reduce negative effects on the mind and body.

If they do not receive proper support, this can lead to toxic stress.

It’s important that a child feels safe and cared for. Take time to learn your child’s stress signals and help them understand how they can cope with and let go of stressors.