Protective factors are conditions or attributes of individuals, families, communities and the larger society that mitigate the developmental risks posed by trauma and promote healthy development and wellbeing of children, youth, and families.

Impact of trauma and adversity in the absence of buffers/protective factors Recognising: Toxic stress

We all experience stress in our daily lives. Some of this stress is positive and helps us to function. However, reactions to traumatic and other adverse life events, particularly in early childhood, can create toxic stress. This can affect the way our brains and bodies grow. Over time this can have a negative impact on day-to-day functioning, including the ability to focus and to regulate emotions.

Children are particularly dependent on adult caregivers as buffers to toxic stress, because their brains simply aren t developed to the point where they have adequate coping mechanisms to respond to stress.

Positive stress

Severe

Repeated

Unrelieved Watch It

Click here to see a video about how toxic stress in childhood affects functioning in adulthood

Tolerable stress Toxic stress

Positive stress

What causes toxic stress ?

Adverse life events that are:

Toxic stress increases risks to mental and physical health

https://www.nes.scot.nhs.uk/our-work/trauma-national-trauma-training-programme/