June is PTSD awareness month and Childhood Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can impact a child’s life following a life-altering event. This article aims to discuss the various causes of PTSD in children, highlight the signs to look out for, and most importantly, examine the effective ways to support children with PTSD as they start their journey towards healing.
Causes of PTSD in Children:
PTSD in children can result from a variety of experiences, such as:
– Witnessing Violence: Children can find exposure to violence at home, school, or in the community.
– Accidents: Events like car accidents or severe injuries can affect a child’s sense of safety and well-being.
– Natural Disasters: Children can develop PTSD after natural disasters and seeing the damage of their surroundings.
– Loss of Loved Ones: The death of a family member or friend can trigger feelings of sadness and worry how they fit into the new normal.
– Bullying: Persistent bullying, whether in person or online, can cause fear, sadness and lack of self-worth.
– Health Problems: Children dealing with serious illnesses or extended hospital stays may develop PTSD due to the fear and pain associated with their condition.
Signs of PTSD in Children:
Knowing the signs of PTSD in children can help prevent early intervention and support. These signs may include:
– Nightmares and Trouble Sleeping
– Flashbacks
– Avoidance of Triggers
– Changes in Mood
– Trouble Concentrating
– Physical Symptoms
– Easily Scared
– Withdrawal from Social Activities
– Acting Out
– Regressive Behavior
Supporting Children with PTSD:
To help children on their healing journey, it’s important to create a safe, nurturing, loving, understanding, and supportive life around the child. Talking is a powerful tool that fosters trust and offers a safe space for children to express their thoughts and feelings. Seeking professional help from therapists specialized in childhood trauma can provide invaluable guidance and therapy. Educating ourselves about available resources and support groups gives us the knowledge to assist our children.
PTSD is one of the diagnoses that might qualify a youth for Child Mental Health Wraparound Services. To request a referral and assessment, contact Child Advocates
317-205-3055 or call 211 to request an assessment.
For more information about Child Mental Health Wraparound Services, click here https://advocacy-links.com/childmentalhealth/
