As parents and caregivers, we want what’s best for our teenagers. We work hard to ensure their physical and emotional well-being. Unfortunately, even with all our best intentions, teens can still experience traumatic events that can set them back both emotionally and mentally.
Trauma can affect a person’s life in many ways, and it can be hard to spot the signs. If your teen has experienced a traumatic event, it is crucial to monitor their behavior and look for signs of trauma. Learning how to identify signs of trauma in teenagers and how a trauma therapy program can help may help you guide your loved one to the help they need.
At Imagine Seattle, we believe every teen deserves to lead a healthy, happy life. Contact us today at 888.346.0473 to learn how we can help your teen overcome trauma and live their best life.
Signs of Trauma in Teenagers
As a parent, it can be challenging to know when your teen is experiencing trauma. Trauma is an emotional response to a traumatic event, such as a car accident or violence. It is essential to recognize the signs of trauma so that you can get your teen the help that they need. Here are four signs of trauma in teenagers:
Changes in Behavior
One of the most significant signs of trauma in teenagers is changes in behavior. Your teen may behave differently than usual, such as withdrawing from friends and family or displaying aggressive or impulsive behaviors. You may also notice that your teen has difficulty concentrating or that they engage in self-harm behaviors, such as cutting.
Physical Symptoms
Trauma can also manifest itself in physical symptoms. Your teen may experience headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained physical ailments. They may also experience insomnia or nightmares, which can lead to fatigue and trouble concentrating.
Emotional Responses
Emotional responses are common signs of trauma in teenagers. Your teen may become easily upset or overly emotional and struggle to regulate emotions. They may also become anxious, depressed, or have panic attacks.
Avoidance Behaviors
Trauma can lead your teen to develop avoidance behaviors. They may avoid places, people, or situations that remind them of the traumatic event. For example, if your teen is in a car accident, they may avoid cars or driving.
How Imagine Seattle Can Help
If you notice any of these symptoms of trauma in your teen, it is vital to seek help. Imagine Seattle offers a trauma therapy program designed specifically for teenagers between the ages of 12 and 17. We believe in trauma-informed care, which means that we are sensitive to the unique needs of every individual.
Our program includes group, individual, and family therapy and evidence-based treatment modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). We also offer medication management, educational advocacy, and a step-down program to seamlessly transition from a partial hospitalization program (PHP) to an intensive outpatient program (IOP).
Call Imagine Seattle Today to Enroll in Our Trauma Therapy Program
If you suspect your teen has experienced a traumatic event, it’s essential to look for the signs of trauma and take quick action. Changes in sleeping patterns, anxiety, avoidance, and withdrawal are all indicators that your teen may be struggling with trauma.
At Imagine Seattle, we understand the complexities of adolescent trauma and offer a comprehensive trauma therapy program designed to help teens find healing and hope. If you suspect your teen is experiencing trauma and needs help, please do not hesitate to contact us at 888.346.0473 or online. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to support you and your teen every step of the way.