https://pixabay.com/users/gerdukes-4387545/
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From SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
It’s important to recognize the signs of traumatic stress and its short- and long-term impact.
The signs of traumatic stress are different in each child. Young children react differently than older children.
Preschool Children
Fearing separation from parents or caregivers
Crying and/or screaming a lot
Eating poorly and losing weight
Having nightmares
Elementary School Children
Becoming anxious or fearful
Feeling guilt or shame
Having a hard time concentrating
Having difficulty sleeping
Middle and High School Children
Feeling depressed or alone
Developing eating disorders and self-harming behaviors
Beginning to abuse alcohol or drugs
Becoming sexually active
For some children, these reactions can interfere with daily life and their ability to function and interact with others.
Impact of Child Traumatic Stress
The impact of child traumatic stress can last well beyond childhood. In fact, research shows that child trauma survivors are more likely to have:
Learning problems, including lower grades and more suspensions and expulsions
Increased use of health services, including mental health services
Increased involvement with the child welfare and juvenile justice systems
Long term health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease
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