The definition of a “traumatic event” is often subjective since everyone experiences and reacts to situations differently. When you consider that lots of traumatic events and symptoms go unreported, it's not a far stretch to conclude that this number is likely much higher. Stanford estimates that about 4% of kids will be exposed to some type of trauma before the age of 18 which will lead to developing PTSD in children. Lots of events can be traumatic – especially for young children. Of course, these children need all the support in the world, but childhood PTSD is much more common than you might think.
When people think of PTSD in children or teens, they often link it to events like the Florida shooting or other acts of mass violence. As such, teen and child PTSD treatment require a specialized and comprehensive approach.Ĭhildhood PTSD and Adolescent PTSD is More Common (and Detrimental) Than You Might Think PTSD symptoms in children and teens looks much different than in adults. Even far from Florida, many children and adolescents could experience symptoms of PTSD simply from seeing disturbing news coverage on events like this that can produce feelings of instability and fear. Georgetown Behavioral Health Institute wants you to know that we're here to help you and your family cope after this event. No matter what kind of changes take place in the future, these kids still have to struggle through life after experiencing a traumatic event – an event so horrible that it's impossible for folks who haven't lived it to comprehend its gravity. However, it doesn't do much for the current victims who may face childhood PTSD and adolescent PTSD.
This, of course, is a very valid response. Regardless of opinions on hot issues, these actions often have one thing in common: they focus on preventing another traumatic event from happening. When a traumatic event happens like the recent Parkland shooting, communities often come together and jump into action.