Childhood Trauma & PTSD
Trauma at a young age can have far reaching effects on a child’s development. Difficulties can exist into adulthood and early treatment should be sought for children and teenagers who are suffering ongoing distress or disturbance following a serious incident. A traumatic experience includes those where an individual has been exposed to a situation which was perceived as life threatening or if the person could have experienced serious injury. Natural disasters, serious accidents, sexual assault, neglect and physical abuse can all be classed as traumatic events.
In some instances during childhood and adolescence if a family member or close friend is exposed to a traumatic event, children can also present with symptoms upon learning of the incident. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one condition which can occur as a result of traumatic experiences. Complex trauma can also occur when people are exposed to distressing events on multiple occasions or over extended periods.
If a child or teenager has been exposed to a traumatic event and are experiencing ongoing distress or dysfunction as a result, then a consult with a Psychologist is suggested. Psychologists can help the individual and their family to understand the condition, process the event and cope with the symptoms they are experiencing. Accessing support from a Child Psychologist early on can promote better mental health outcomes later in life in instances of childhood trauma.
In some instances during childhood and adolescence if a family member or close friend is exposed to a traumatic event, children can also present with symptoms upon learning of the incident. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one condition which can occur as a result of traumatic experiences. Complex trauma can also occur when people are exposed to distressing events on multiple occasions or over extended periods.
If a child or teenager has been exposed to a traumatic event and are experiencing ongoing distress or dysfunction as a result, then a consult with a Psychologist is suggested. Psychologists can help the individual and their family to understand the condition, process the event and cope with the symptoms they are experiencing. Accessing support from a Child Psychologist early on can promote better mental health outcomes later in life in instances of childhood trauma.
