June is PTSD Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness about how trauma can affect mental health. While PTSD is often talked about in adults, it’s important to remember that children and youth can also experience deep emotional stress that impacts how they think, feel, and grow. At Advocacy Links, we find the support they need through Indiana wraparound services.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a scary or harmful event. In children, it might not look the same as it does in adults. Instead of talking about what happened, children might act out, have trouble sleeping, seem more anxious or withdrawn, or struggle in school or social settings.
How Trauma Affects Children
Children who go through trauma—such as abuse, neglect, loss, or major life disruptions—may not always be able to put their feelings into words. Their brains and bodies are still developing, and stress can change how they respond to the world around them. Without support, trauma can lead to long-term challenges with learning, relationships, and self-esteem.
The Good News: Healing Is Possible
With the right tools and support, children can recover and thrive after trauma. It starts with caring adults who listen, believe, and act.
What Families Can Do
- Pay attention to changes in behavior. If a child seems withdrawn, fearful, or unusually angry, it could be a sign they’re struggling with something deeper.
- Create a safe space. Let kids know they are loved and supported, no matter what.
- Seek professional help. Counseling, therapy, and wraparound services can help children learn to cope and grow.
- Be patient. Healing from trauma takes time, and every child’s journey is different.
Let’s Build a Future of Safety and Healing
This June, let’s remember that PTSD and trauma don’t just affect adults. By recognizing the impact of stress on children, we can start important conversations, build stronger support systems, and create healing spaces where every child has a chance to feel safe and succeed.