In broad terms, trauma can be defined as any event that causes physical harm or severe psychological distress. Traumatic events that occur during childhood can have a lasting impact on your emotional, behavioral, cognitive, and social well-being. Trauma can result in intense emotional reactions and negatively impact social-emotional development. Children with a history of trauma are at increased risk of developing anxiety, depression, substance use problems, and relationship problems. Symptoms of trauma vary widely, but may include vivid flashbacks, negative thoughts and mood, trigger avoidance, and physical reactions like a spike in heart rate, rapid breathing, or shaking.