Recognizing the Symptoms of PTSD in a Child
Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress in a Child
Children express distress differently than adults. Parents need to see the warning signs of PTSD in their children and know how to act.
Children can exhibit a range of symptoms if they're experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These symptoms might manifest differently depending on the child's age and personality. Children who have experienced childhood sexual abuse may exhibit the following symptoms:
Re-experiencing the Trauma
Children may have intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks related to the traumatic event. They might also experience distress when reminded of the event. They may have sudden outbursts or irrational fears. It is crucial to remember that this is happening at the subconscious level, and children are not able to express their emotions in the way an adult would. Parents must aim to be patient, understanding, and aware of patterns they see arise in their children.
Avoidance
Children with PTSD may try to avoid situations, places, or people that remind them of the traumatic event. They might also avoid talking about it. PTSD can affect a child's social skills and interactions with peers. They may withdraw from social activities, have difficulty trusting others, or struggle to communicate effectively. Avoidant behaviors can be clues to help parents understand where the child’s source of stress is coming from.
Negative changes in Thinking and Mood
Children with PTSD may have difficulty regulating their emotions and may experience heightened levels of anxiety, fear, or sadness. This can impact their ability to form healthy relationships and cope with everyday stressors. Symptoms can include negative thoughts about themselves or the world, guilt or shame, a decreased interest in activities they once enjoyed, or difficulty experiencing positive emotions. Children might have trouble sleeping or concentrating or display irritable or angry behavior. Older children may also engage in reckless, impulsive, or self-destructive behavior.
Hypervigilance
Children who are experiencing post-traumatic stress may be constantly on guard, hypervigilant, or easily startled. This can lead to difficulties with concentration and sleep disturbances. Traumatic experiences can disrupt a child's typical sleep patterns and lead to disturbances such as nightmares, difficulty falling asleep, or frequent waking during the night. These sleep disturbances can contribute to bedwetting, particularly if the child is experiencing heightened stress or anxiety related to the traumatic event.
Physical symptoms
Parents can often overlook somatic PTSD symptoms that may arise because they look like common childhood illnesses. These can include headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained physical complaints. Chronic stress associated with PTSD can have adverse effects on a child’s physical health, including an increased risk of illness and a weakened immune system.
It's important to note that these symptoms can vary widely from child to child, and some may not exhibit all of them. Additionally, symptoms can change over time and may not appear immediately after the traumatic event. If you suspect your child is experiencing PTSD, it's crucial to seek help from a doctor and/or mental health professional who specializes in treating children who have experienced trauma.
Trees of Hope offers a variety of resources for parents. Check out the Resource Store for sexual abuse prevention guides and sex education curriculum. We also provide an online prevention workshop for parents, caregivers, teachers, or anyone seeking to learn about abuse prevention and how to better safeguard their loved ones. The workshop costs $15 and includes a physical copy of our Prevent Magazine sent to online workshop registrants.
