Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Children

Who is at risk for PTSD?

PTSD may follow a severe trauma. It may be something the child experiences. Or it may be an event the child sees or hears about. Even violent movies or TV shows can cause trauma.

A child is at risk for PTSD after any of these:

• A rape or sexual assault

• A car accident or plane crash

• Physical or mental abuse

• Being a victim or witness of violence, such as riots or wars

• Natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods

• The sudden death of a parent or other loved one

Symptoms of PTSD in children

Symptoms of PTSD often appear a few weeks after the trauma. But sometimes they may occur months or years later. A child with PTSD may have:

• Bad dreams about the event

• Vivid memories of the event that seem real (flashbacks)

• A fear of people or places connected with the event

• Reactions to things that remind them of the event the event (trauma cues) such as sights, sounds, people, smells, and places

And they may:

• Seem withdrawn and unfeeling

• Be nervous

• Have angry outbursts

• Have trouble sleeping or focusing

• Have headaches or other health problems

• Reenact the event over and over in play

Treating PTSD

PTSD in a child can be treated with:

• Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy

• Other types of 1-on-1 or group talk therapy

• Medicines to manage anxiety, insomnia, and depression

It’s also important for a child to be with other children. It can make them feel less alone. And will help them work through their pain.

What you can do

You can play a large part in your child’s healing process. You can:

• Accept your child's emotions. Remind them of your love and support.

• Encourage them to share their feelings with you or a trusted healthcare provider.

• Schedule ongoing mental healthcare for them.

• If PTSD causes problems with schoolwork or friendships, ask school staff for support.