PTSD in Teens: What Are the Signs And How to Help

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can affect anyone who has experienced a traumatic event, and teenagers are no exception. The teenage years are already a challenging time due to the physical, emotional and social changes that occur, and PTSD can complicate these further. Understanding the signs of PTSD in teens and knowing how to help them is crucial for parents, guardians and educators.

What is PTSD? PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a person has witnessed or been involved in a traumatic event. This might include natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist acts, war/combat or rape. In teens, it can also result from bullying, physical or sexual abuse or the sudden death of a loved one.

PTSD symptoms in teenagers can differ from those in adults. Teens are in a developmental stage where they are still learning to process emotions and experiences, so their symptoms may manifest uniquely.

Emotional and behavioral signs

1. Re-experiencing the trauma: Teens may have flashbacks, nightmares or intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event.
2. Avoidance: They may avoid places, people or activities that remind them of the trauma. This can lead to withdrawal from friends and family.
3. Negative changes in thinking and mood: Teens might experience memory problems, negative thoughts about themselves or others, distorted feelings of guilt or blame and a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed.
4. Hyper-arousal: This includes being easily startled, feeling tense or “on edge,” having difficulty sleeping or having angry outbursts.

Physical symptoms

eens with PTSD may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches or other unexplained aches and pains. These can be signs that the teen is struggling with emotional distress.

PTSD can interfere with a teen’s daily life, affecting their performance at school, relationships with family and friends and overall well-being. It may lead to difficulties in concentrating, increased absenteeism from school, or a decline in academic performance. Socially, teens with PTSD may feel isolated or misunderstood, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression.

Helping a teen with PTSD involves a combination of professional treatment, support from family and friends and self-help strategies.

Professional treatment for PTSD in teens

1. Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for PTSD. It helps teens process the traumatic event and change negative thought patterns. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is another therapy that has proven effective.
2. Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of depression or anxiety associated with PTSD. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment.
3. Family Therapy: This can help family members understand PTSD and learn how to support their loved one. It also addresses any family dynamics that may contribute to stress.

Creating a supportive environment

1. Open Communication: Encourage teens to talk about their feelings without judgment. Listening is crucial, as it helps them feel understood and supported.
2. Consistency: Maintaining a routine provides a sense of stability.  Maintain your teen’s regular schedule for school, extracurricular activities and downtime.
3. Education: Educate yourself and your teen about PTSD. Understanding the condition can reduce stigma and promote empathy.

Self-help strategies

1. Stress-Reduction Techniques: Encourage practices like deep breathing, meditation or yoga. These can help manage stress and anxiety.
2. Healthy Lifestyle: Promote a balanced diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep. These are essential for mental and physical health.
3. Creative Outlets: Art, music or writing can be therapeutic. Encourage your teen to express their feelings through creative activities.

PTSD in teens is a serious condition that requires attention and care. By recognizing the signs, understanding the impact and knowing how to help, you can make a significant difference in a teen’s recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health issue like PTSD, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At Granite Hills Hospital, located in West Allis, Wisconsin, we provide a continuum of care that includes inpatient and outpatient programs. If you are interested in treatment, view our services to learn more or call us today at 414-667-4800.

Granite Hills Hospital is a private behavioral health facility that offers inpatient and outpatient mental health services. We provide evidence-based treatment modalities for adults and adolescents. Our facility has a team of professionals who work with you to best understand your individual needs and connects you to a program that gets you or your loved one on the right path.

We focus on growth and supportive, client-centered care. Our facility is has welcoming atmosphere that promotes healing. Our programs include our inpatient and outpatient programs, which services both adult and adolescent.

We service the Milwaukee area community and are located in West Allis, WI. To schedule a no-cost assessment or for more information, please call 662-895-4900.