June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, a time to educate and support individuals affected by trauma-related mental health challenges. While PTSD is often associated with military veterans, it can affect anyone—including children, teens, and parents—who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event.
Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment options for PTSD is critical in helping families support loved ones while fostering an environment where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health condition that may develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening or distressing event, such as:
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Car accidents
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Natural disasters
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Abuse or neglect
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Medical emergencies
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Violent events
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Sudden loss of a loved one
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 5% of U.S. adults experience PTSD each year, with rates often higher in women. Children and teens are also at risk, though their symptoms may look different.
Recognizing Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD symptoms may begin shortly after a traumatic event or even weeks or months later. Common signs include:
For Adults and Teens:
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Flashbacks or nightmares
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Avoidance of places or reminders of the trauma
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Irritability or outbursts
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Sleep disturbances
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Depression or anxiety
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Hypervigilance (being overly alert)
For Children:
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Bedwetting after being potty-trained
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New fears or separation anxiety
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Acting out the trauma through play
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Trouble focusing in school
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Withdrawal from friends and family
It’s important for parents and caregivers to recognize that children may not have the language to describe what they are feeling. Instead, changes in behavior, mood, or academic performance may signal something deeper.
How Families Can Offer Support
When a loved one is experiencing PTSD, family support is crucial. Here are practical steps families can take:
1. Promote Open Communication
Create a safe, judgment-free space where emotions can be shared without fear. Avoid pressuring anyone to talk, but let them know you’re there when they’re ready.
2. Encourage Professional Help
Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are proven to be effective. Medication may also be part of a treatment plan. Families should reach out to mental health professionals for evaluation and care.
3. Learn About PTSD Together
Reading books, listening to podcasts, or attending family support groups can help everyone better understand PTSD and reduce stigma.
4. Build Healthy Routines
Regular meals, consistent sleep schedules, outdoor activity, and mindfulness practices can help create a calming environment for healing.
5. Be Patient and Nonjudgmental
Recovery from trauma is a journey, not a race. Offer reassurance and understanding rather than pushing someone to “move on.”
Tips for Strengthening Mental Health as a Family
In addition to supporting someone with PTSD, building family-wide mental wellness can prevent long-term stress:
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Practice relaxation techniques together like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation
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Spend quality time engaging in activities that foster connection
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Encourage journaling or creative expression
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Limit screen time and social media use, which can exacerbate anxiety
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Make time for exercise and balanced nutrition
When to Seek Immediate Help
If a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or is at risk of harming others, seek emergency help immediately by calling 911 or reaching out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
Citation:
National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Children’s Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth
Disclaimer: Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and mental health support.