Teen PTSD: What Every Parent Should Know During PTSD Awareness Month
June is recognized as PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and promoting access to effective treatments. While PTSD is often associated with military veterans, it’s crucial to acknowledge that civilians, including preteens and teens, are also susceptible to this mental health condition.
Understanding PTSD in Teens
PTSD can develop in adolescents following exposure to traumatic events such as physical or sexual abuse, natural disasters, serious accidents, or witnessing violence. Symptoms of PTSD in teens may include:
- Re-experiencing the trauma through flashbacks or nightmares
- Avoiding reminders associated with the traumatic event
- Suffering negative changes in thoughts and mood, such as feelings of guilt or detachment
- Experiencing heightened arousal symptoms, such as irritability, difficulty concentrating, or sleep disturbances
It’s important to note that teenagers might also exhibit impulsive or self-destructive behaviors, which can be misinterpreted as typical adolescent conduct rather than signs of PTSD.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early recognition and treatment of PTSD in teens is vital. Without appropriate care, PTSD can lead to long-term issues such as depression, substance abuse, and difficulties in school and relationships.
Effective Treatments for Adolescent PTSD
Several evidence-based therapies have proven effective for treating PTSD in adolescents:
- Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). This approach helps teens process traumatic memories and develop coping strategies.
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR assists in reducing the emotional impact of traumatic memories through guided eye movements.
- Medication. While not the first line of treatment, certain medications may be prescribed to address specific symptoms such as depression or anxiety.
Supporting Teens With PTSD
Parental and caregiver support plays a crucial role in a teen’s recovery from PTSD. Maintaining open communication, providing a stable environment, and encouraging participation in enjoyable activities can aid in healing.
PTSD Awareness Month offers an opportunity to educate ourselves and others about PTSD in teenagers. By recognizing the signs, seeking appropriate treatment, and providing support, we can make a significant difference in the lives of affected teens.
Navigate PTSD With ReGroup Foundation
ReGroup Foundation is a nonprofit that helps preteens and teens as well as their families anonymously share and benefit from mental health success stories. Too often, the best resources and practices in teen wellness remain under the radar.
We want all families to benefit from the triumphs of those who have “been there, done that” where PTSD and other issues impacting teen welfare are concerned. We make this possible by collecting family reviews of local mental health caregivers and facilities and providing a forum for sharing personal strategies that teens can use in recovering from wellness challenges. In only 15 minutes, you can begin making a world of difference in the lives of teens and their families — just by anonymously sharing your successes. Register today, and start sharing your reviews and mental health insights.