What counts as a 'difficult childhood'? It's a complex question, with a lot of different answers, because ultimately it's about your subjective experience. What we will explore here is the impact that adverse childhood experiences – of ranging severity – can have on your life as an adult.

Many therapists and counsellors uphold that our childhood experiences and relationships affect us into adulthood, and issues stemming from childhood are a common reason for people seeking help.

If our relationship with our primary caregiver(s) – most commonly our parents – is nurturing, attentive and supportive, we are more likely to develop a secure attachment and a solid sense of self. If, however, this relationship is neglectful, violent or inattentive, we may develop an insecure attachment pattern that can shape our relationships into adulthood.

You may know, or have some idea, that you had a challenging childhood. Or you might not quite fully understand how your childhood experiences are affecting you today – whatever angle you are coming from, this is something that you can explore with your therapist or counsellor.

Some examples include:

• witnessing or experiencing domestic violence
• sexual abuse
• physical abuse
• bullying by a parent or other important person
• emotional abuse
• neglect
• bereavement at a young age
• living in poverty
• living somewhere affected by war or other disaster