Signs and Symptoms of Trauma and PTSD in Teens

Trauma in teenagers can result from a wide range of events, from a car accident or natural disaster to bullying, abuse, or the loss of a loved one. When the feelings of distress from a traumatic event don’t fade, a teen may be experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

The signs can be complex and are often mistaken for general “acting out” or moodiness.

Core Symptom Clusters for PTSD in Teens

1. Re-experiencing the Event:

• Intrusive Memories: Unwanted, upsetting memories of the trauma.
• Flashbacks: Feeling as if the trauma is happening again.
• Nightmares: Frightening dreams about the event.
• Intense physical or emotional reactions to reminders of the trauma (e.g., a specific place, sound, or smell).

2. Avoidance:

• Avoiding Thoughts or Feelings: Actively trying not to think or talk about the traumatic event.
• Avoiding People or Places: Staying away from reminders of the trauma, which can lead to social isolation.

3. Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood:

• Hopelessness about the future.
• Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event.
• Feeling detached from family and friends.
• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions (e.g., happiness, love).
• Persistent feelings of fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame.

4. Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions (Arousal):

• Being easily startled or frightened.
• Always being “on guard” for danger (hypervigilance).
• Self-destructive behavior, such as reckless driving or substance use.
• Trouble sleeping or concentrating.
• Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior.

The Path to Healing

Recognizing these signs is the first step toward healing. A teen experiencing these symptoms needs a safe and supportive environment to process their experience.

Treatment Approaches That Work

Effective trauma treatment for teens often includes:

• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Group therapy with other teens who’ve experienced trauma
• Family therapy to strengthen support systems
• Mind-body techniques like yoga and mindfulness
• Creative therapies including art and music therapy

When to Seek Help

If trauma symptoms are:

• Lasting more than a month after the event
• Interfering with school, relationships, or daily activities
• Getting worse instead of better over time
• Accompanied by self-harm or suicidal thoughts

It’s time to reach out for professional support. Trauma doesn’t have to define your teen’s future—with the right help, they can heal and thrive.