The teenage years can be a challenging time for anyone. Still, a traumatic event can trigger a cascade of emotional and mental issues that can make life seem overwhelming. Trauma is an event that overwhelms people’s ability to cope and can cause psychological distress. If left untreated, this distress can result in severe mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. Fortunately, adolescent trauma therapy can help teens to cope and manage their symptoms. Call 888.291.2309 to speak with someone from the caring and compassionate team at Imagine Fort Collins about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in teens, how to spot signs of trauma in adolescence, and how professional help can help.
What Is Trauma?
Trauma can come in many forms, such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, exposure to violence, or the death of a loved one. It is important to note that trauma differs for everyone, and what may traumatize one person may not affect the other. The symptoms of trauma can vary as well. While some may experience nightmares and flashbacks about the traumatic event, others may experience feelings of numbness and detachment from the world around them. Trauma can also lead to developing post-traumatic stress disorder.
How does PTSD in teens develop? While PTSD can develop anytime, it is prevalent in teens who have experienced a traumatic event. PTSD can develop due to various reasons, such as the severity of the trauma, how long it lasted, whether it was a single incident or multiple incidents, and the support available during and after the event.
10 Signs of Trauma in Teens
While not all trauma can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, it’s still critical to spot signs of trauma in teens, like the following:
- Changes in mood, such as anxiety and depression
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Aggressive behavior toward others
- Difficulty sleeping or recurring nightmares
- Avoidance of specific places or people
- Physical symptoms such as headaches and stomachaches
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Difficulty in concentrating or focusing
- Substance abuse, such as drug or alcohol use
- Increased risk-taking behavior
Even without a diagnosable condition, some teens may still benefit from professional help to deal with their unresolved trauma.
How to Help Young Loved Ones Exhibiting Signs of Trauma in Adolescence
It can be challenging to navigate the complexities of trauma, but there are things parents can do to support their loved ones. Providing a safe and supportive environment, listening without judgment, and validating their feelings can help ease some of the distress they may be feeling.
Parents can also look for professional help, such as therapy or counseling. Teen counseling can provide a safe space to explore their emotions and learn new coping mechanisms. At Imagine Fort Collins, we offer teen mental health treatment in Colorado that can help your loved ones overcome the challenges of trauma and other mental health challenges.
Trauma-informed teen counseling provides a supportive environment that encourages teens to explore their emotional well-being in a safe and confidential space. Our trained therapists employ various methods, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), to help your loved ones overcome the challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder and unresolved trauma.
Find Help for Trauma in Teens at Imagine Fort Collins
Recognizing the signs of trauma in adolescence is essential in identifying possible mental health challenges your loved ones may face. By providing a safe and supportive environment, encouraging open communication, and seeking professional help, parents can help their loved ones overcome the challenges of trauma and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Contact Imagine Fort Collins today at 888.291.2309 to learn more about our teen mental health treatment in Colorado.