Recognizing PTSD in Teens: How To Help Them
What Is PTSD in Teens?
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses something traumatic. This might be:
- A serious accident
- Physical or sexual abuse
- A natural disaster
- School violence or bullying
- Witnessing violence
- The sudden death of someone they love
For teens, trauma can be especially confusing. Their brains are still growing, and they are still learning how to handle big emotions.
Did You Know?
According to the National Comorbidity Survey, about 5% of teens in the U.S. have PTSD. Among teens who have experienced trauma, up to 15–20% may develop PTSD.
Common Signs of PTSD in Teenagers
If your teen has PTSD, you may notice signs like:
- Flashbacks or nightmares: They keep reliving the event
- Avoidance: They avoid places or people that remind them of the trauma
- Negative feelings: They feel sad, guilty, or think badly about themselves
- Angry or jumpy: They get angry quickly or are easily startled
Teens with PTSD might also act out, break rules, or take dangerous risks.
Getting help early can stop things from getting worse.
How Is PTSD Diagnosed and Treated?
Mental health professionals use interviews and assessments to diagnose PTSD. If your teen is diagnosed, don’t worry—help is available.
Treatments may include:
- Therapy: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) helps teens talk about the trauma and learn effective coping skills.
- Medication: Sometimes, medicine is used to treat anxiety, depression, or sleep problems.
- Family therapy: Getting the whole family involved can make a big difference.
Fact: TF-CBT has been shown in studies to reduce PTSD symptoms in up to 80% of children and adolescents who complete the full course of therapy.
Why Family Support Matters So Much
One of the best things you can do for your teen is show up with love and support. Here’s why family support matters:
- Emotional safety: Teens need to feel safe and understood at home
- Healthy habits: Parents can model healthy ways to cope with stress
- Routines help: A consistent schedule gives teens a sense of control
- Open talks: Talking and listening without judgment builds trust
Even if you’re not sure what to say, just being there helps.
Important Note: Studies show that teens with strong family support are twice as likely to respond positively to PTSD treatment compared to those without it.
Why Early Help Is So Important
Getting help early can stop things from getting worse. Untreated PTSD can lead to school problems, risky behavior, or serious mental health issues. But with support, teens can lead happy, healthy lives.
Warning Sign: Teens with PTSD are at a higher risk for depression, substance use, and self-harm if they don’t get help.
Final Thoughts
PTSD can deeply affect a teen’s life, but recovery is possible—with the right support. As a parent or caregiver, your presence, patience, and encouragement play a powerful role. You don’t need to have all the answers—just being there and helping your teen access professional care can make all the difference. Early support leads to better healing. You’re not alone, and neither is your teen.
Would you become a Fuller Life GEM?
Every GEM provides vital support, ensuring that finances are never a barrier to healing. Through your contribution, you can be the reason someone finds hope, healing, and strength. Whether it’s $25 or $100 a month, your partnership changes lives.
Join 44 other Fuller Life GEMS today and help us make mental health care is available to all and shine as a beacon of hope.
Erin Viramontes
Resident Therapist
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