Trauma is an all-too-common experience in the lives of children, with lasting effects that can carry into adulthood if not properly addressed. Childhood trauma can stem from various sources, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional neglect, natural disasters, or even witnessing violence. The impact of these experiences can manifest in many forms, from behavioural changes to physical symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The event—or series of events—may be so overwhelming that the children who experience it have difficulty coping with daily life. Unlike adults, children may not have the verbal skills to express their feelings or the life experience to understand their reactions. As a result, trauma can significantly affect their development, both psychologically and emotionally.
According to research, child trauma is particularly concerning because children's brains are still developing, making them more susceptible to the long-term effects of trauma. This vulnerability means that children who experience trauma may struggle with feelings of fear, guilt, or shame long after the traumatic event has ended.
While trauma can affect any child, not all traumatic experiences will result in PTSD. The distinction between trauma and PTSD is crucial, as it shapes the approach to treatment. Trauma refers to the emotional response to a distressing event. In contrast, PTSD is a more severe, chronic condition that can develop after exposure to trauma.
Research explains that PTSD in children may manifest through persistent nightmares, flashbacks, and intense emotional distress when reminded of the trauma. Children with PTSD might also avoid situations that remind them of the traumatic event, experience heightened arousal (such as difficulty sleeping or being easily startled), and suffer from adverse changes in mood or thinking.
Therapy plays a vital role in helping children process trauma and manage the symptoms of PTSD. Early intervention is key to mitigating the long-term effects of trauma. Various therapeutic approaches can be tailored to the child's needs, helping them navigate their emotions and build resilience.
One effective approach in working with children is Play Therapy. Play is the universal language of children. Play therapy uses the vocabulary of metaphors, allowing children to "play out" what they cannot express and yet feel safe to express them freely and explore their harrowing experiences. Thus, play therapy is an effective intervention for children who need therapeutic support, particularly when they struggle with using words to identify or recognise the causes of concerns. The therapist reported that children who attend play therapy show improvement in their communication skills, creativity and social engagement as they heal from their traumatic experience.
Restoring Peace is a private mental health centre which provides counselling and psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, youths and adult individuals, couples and groups with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and various mental health and relationship challenges. For more information, please visit www.restoringpeace.com.sg or WhatsApp at +65 8889 1848. For periodic updates, we invite you to join our telegram group, https://t.me/restoringpeace.
Keywords: trauma, children, therapy, counselling, play therapy, PTSD, experiences
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