When a traumatic event occurs, whether at home, in school, or within the community, children may develop post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. PTSD is a mental health problem that affects people of all ages. In children, PTSD may entail keeping scary thoughts and memories of a past event. The child may find the event terrifying both emotionally and physically.
After a stressful or traumatic event, your child may exhibit symptoms soon after or may not exhibit symptoms for six months or longer. Some children with PTSD experience long-term effects and may feel emotionally numb for a long period. It can also be accompanied by a depressive episode or anxiety in Maryland.
Most children are unable to communicate their thoughts as well as adults can. Similar to bipolar disorder, the symptoms of PTSD may appear different between young children and adults. Moreover, people express themselves differently, so it’s important to know the symptoms of PTSD in children.
For young children below 5 years of age, they may become catatonic and sit still or not speak for long periods. They may exhibit reverted behavioral development, such as wetting the bed or sucking their thumb despite overcoming these behaviors in the past. They may also have new or unusual phobias like dark spaces or certain environments and activities.
Moreover, school-aged children between the ages of 6 and 11 may isolate themselves and refuse to talk. They may develop irrational fears, show aggressive behavior like fighting, and lose interest in activities. This may start to show in their schoolwork and their relationships with parents, family members, and their peers.
We at Comprehensive Healthcare & Wellness Services offer pediatric mental health services to meet your needs. Seek help for PTSD by getting in touch with us.
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