Post-traumatic Distress Disorder
With the recent events in Haiti or any similarly traumatic event, it is normal to feel a sense of overwhelming anxiety and little to no control over your environment. This post event distress is commonly referred to as PTSD or post-traumatic distress disorder.
Although it makes perfect sense to expect this type of anxiety or nervousness after a big event like the earthquake in Haiti, the recent violence in Yemen or the building collapse in Florida, PTSD also occurs after emotional devastation like being the victim of rape, leaving an abusive relationship or being the victim of a crime. Any event where the person is made to feel helpless, emotionally traumatized or frightened can cause the stress after the event.
This stress frequently occurs within three months of the event, but rarely can occur several years later. The pre-existing conditions that place certain teens more at risk include, but are not limited to depression or other mental health disorder, a history of neglect or abuse, the event is long-lasting, the teen has poor family or friend support, the trauma was especially severe.
With no healthy support unhealthy coping skills can ensue like eating disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, avoidant high-risk behavior like socializing with dangerous people or self-mutilation like cutting.
What can you do?
- Support. A good support system that is understanding and allows teens to heal at their own pace is the best way to support your teen. They should be permitted to talk or not talk as much as they want.
- Mental Health. A good mental health clinician can provide an objective support and is in a position to hear things that your teen may be too embarrassed to share with parents or family. It is also a great way to assess if medication is going to be required to assist in the healing process.
- Safety. It is important that your teen feel safe. Removing them from the dangerous situation or situations that remind them of the traumatic event is ideal for your teen’s well-being. Safety also includes watching for high-risk or other behaviors that are signs of poor coping.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can be emotionally and physically debilitating for teens. Being aware of how severe it is can give you the tools to aggressively take action before it is too late. The families, children and teens of Haiti need that kind of aggressive help, if you can help even a little the following link is a list of organizations helping Haiti. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Related posts:
Loading ...