Have you ever encountered an event that changed you forever? Being in an accident, a physical or sexual assault, or health issues that ended up in the ICU. Any one of these events can change a person forever. For many people, it can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Anyone can have PTSD, including children. PTSD causes disturbing thoughts and feelings related to a traumatic event. They may relive the events through flashbacks or nightmares. They may feel sadness, fear or anger, and feel detached or estranged from other people.
Children with PTSD may avoid situations or people that remind them of the traumatic event. Walking this journey with your child could change their lives forever.
Suggestions to help your child struggling with PTSD:
- They are more than their diagnosis
Their trauma is part of their story, not their identity. The story they tell will separate PTSD from who God created them to be.
- Be present for them
Supporting your child with trauma history is just showing up and being available to them. Accept your child, no matter what behaviors emerge. No child will ever say their parents were too supportive and encouraging.
- Transitions
Give warnings ahead of activity transitions. Doing something unexpected, such as turning off lights or making a loud sound, can trigger a trauma response.
- Make an out plan
If they feel triggered or overwhelmed, designate a quiet space for them to take a sensory break and regulate their emotions. Provide a box of calming tools your child can use, such as fidget toys or coloring books, to help them when they’re feeling this way
- Get them help
Find a therapist or support group that recognizes and understands the impact of trauma in children or teens with PTSD. Saddleback Church has an extensive list of licensed therapists to help your child if necessary.
Pray for your child:
“Lord, You know the circumstances that caused my child to have PTSD. Give them hope, knowing better days are ahead. It breaks my heart to see them suffering. May you give me wisdom and words of encouragement to support them and give them comfort. Please relieve their pain and distress. Please give me strength as I travel this unfamiliar road with my child. In Jesus name, Amen.”
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