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When a person suffers trauma, the body enters a state of emergency on a biological level. The body uses a lot of energy very quickly to heighten all the senses, put the nerves on high alert, and pump blood to the muscles. This is intended to help us escape a dangerous situation as quickly as possible. These symptoms may pass soon after the event but can last for several weeks. In cases of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), however, the symptoms can be ongoing.
For teenagers who have suffered trauma, the healing process can be more complex. They no longer have the confidence that younger children have and do not have the same certainty that their family will take care of them. They are starting to see themselves as independent individuals, learn about the threats in the world and compare themselves to their peers. This can create conflict in a teenager as, on the one hand, they desperately want the support of their family, but on the other, they are trying to exert their independence.
Signs of Trauma in a Teenager
Trauma will manifest differently in different people, but there are some common signs that your teenager has been traumatized by an experience or event.
- Having extreme emotions of anxiety, anger, guilt or sadness
- Having extreme reactions to small issues and irritations
- Returning to the event regularly either in their thoughts or by talking about it
- Having difficulty sleeping
- Becoming withdrawn from friends and family
- Choosing to isolate themselves and avoid social occasions
- Being overprotective of loved ones
- Ignoring responsibilities or being more rebellious
- Losing interest in activities they used to enjoy
- Being negative in their outlook on life and themselves
- Showing symptoms of depression
- Finding it difficult to concentrate or problems with short-term memory
How to help teenagers recover from trauma
While a traumatic experience is likely to affect everyone differently, there are some important tips to remember when supporting a teenager as they recover.
- Give them the opportunity to talk about their thoughts and feelings openly and listen to them. Try not to interrupt, judge, or provide advice unless they specifically ask for it.
- Make sure you show them that you want to spend time with them and that you love them. Your love and support should not waver, even when there are difficulties in the relationship.
- Try to create a sense of routine at home but be flexible about responsibilities they would usually have around the house.
- If your teenager asks why they are struggling to recover, make sure that they understand that their response is completely understandable, and symptoms will lessen with time.
- Understand that your teenager may want to spend time with and talk to their friends over their family.
- Don’t express your own feelings of anger or sadness or try to get emotional support from your teenager.
When to seek professional help
The effects of a traumatic experience can be intense and can last for a long time after the event. If you are concerned about your teenager, you may want to consider seeking professional trauma treatment for teens.
For example, if they are behaving recklessly or putting themselves or others in danger, abusing alcohol, drugs or cigarettes, refusing to tell you where they are going or to talk about their feelings at all, they are showing symptoms of depression or anxiety and are making no progress in their recovery.
With the right professional support, which may include therapy and medication, a teenager can make a full recovery from trauma and go on to lead a full and happy life.
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