Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms in Children and Adolescents: What to Look For

When we think of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), we often picture a soldier returning from war, haunted by memories of battle. However, PTSD is not limited to soldiers or even adults. Children and adolescents can also develop PTSD as a result of traumatic experiences. It is estimated that up to 15% of girls and 6% of boys experience PTSD before age 18. As a parent, teacher, or caregiver, it is important to know the signs and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in children and adolescents.

What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental health condition that can occur after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Traumatic events may include physical or sexual abuse, natural disasters, accidents, violence, or the death of a loved one. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.

PTSD Symptoms in Children and Adolescents

The post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in children and adolescents may differ from those in adults. Children may not have the language skills to express their feelings and thoughts and may not understand what is happening to them. On the other hand, adolescents may be more aware of what is happening but may be reluctant to talk about it or seek help.

Here are some common symptoms of PTSD in children and adolescents:

1. Re-experiencing the Trauma

Children and adolescents with PTSD may relive the traumatic event in their minds through memories, nightmares, or flashbacks. They may also experience physical sensations that remind them of the trauma, such as sweating, heart palpitations, or stomachaches.

2. Avoidance

Children and adolescents with PTSD may avoid anything that reminds them of the trauma. For example, they may refuse to talk about it, avoid places or people associated with the trauma, or lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.

3. Hyperarousal

Children and adolescents with PTSD may be easily startled, have difficulty sleeping, or be irritable or angry. They may also have trouble concentrating, feel on edge, or be hypervigilant.

4. Negative Thoughts and Feelings

Children and adolescents with PTSD may have negative thoughts and feelings about themselves, others, or the world around them. They may feel guilty or ashamed, blame themselves for the trauma, or have a distorted view of the world as a dangerous place.

5. Changes in Mood or Behavior

Children and adolescents with PTSD may experience changes in their mood or behavior. They may become withdrawn, lose interest in activities, or struggle with schoolwork. They may also engage in risky behaviors like substance abuse, self-harm, or aggression.

What to Do if You Suspect PTSD

If you suspect a child or adolescent may be experiencing PTSD, seeking help from a mental health professional is important. A mental health professional can assess the child or adolescent’s symptoms and provide a diagnosis, if appropriate. They can also develop a treatment plan to help the child or adolescent manage their symptoms and cope with the trauma.

Treatment for PTSD in Children and Adolescents

The most effective treatment for PTSD in children and adolescents is psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy. Several types of psychotherapy may be used to treat PTSD in children and adolescents, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).

CBT helps children and adolescents identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to PTSD symptoms. Play therapy uses play to help children express their feelings and process their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. EMDR involves guided eye movements that help desensitize traumatic memories and reprocess them.

In addition to psychotherapy, medication may also be used to treat PTSD in children and adolescents. Medications such as antidepressants or antianxiety drugs may be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances.

Support from family and friends is also important in treating PTSD in children and adolescents. Parents and caregivers can provide a safe and supportive environment for the child or adolescent to talk about their experiences and feelings. They can also help the child or adolescent to cope with stress and anxiety and encourage them to engage in activities they enjoy.

Preventing PTSD in Children and Adolescents

While it is not always possible to prevent traumatic events from occurring, some steps can be taken to help children and adolescents cope with and recover from traumatic experiences. Here are some tips for preventing PTSD in children and adolescents:

1. Talk to children and adolescents about traumatic events in an age-appropriate manner.
   
2. Provide a safe and supportive environment for children and adolescents to discuss their experiences and feelings.
   
3. Encourage children and adolescents to engage in activities they enjoy and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
   
4. Seek professional help for children and adolescents who have experienced traumatic events.
   
5. Educate children and adolescents about coping strategies and healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety.

Conclusion

PTSD is a serious mental health condition affecting anyone, including children and adolescents. It is important for parents, teachers, and caregivers to be aware of the signs and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in children and adolescents and to seek help from a mental health professional if necessary. With the right treatment and support, children and adolescents with PTSD can learn to manage their symptoms and recover from their traumatic experiences.

If you suspect that a child or adolescent may be experiencing symptoms of PTSD, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional.