Signs and Symptoms of Teen PTSD / Trauma

Recognizing PTSD / Trauma in teens can help provide the necessary support and intervention. Common symptoms include:

• Emotional Symptoms: Intense fear, sadness, irritability, mood swings, or emotional numbness.

• Physical Symptoms: Difficulty sleeping, headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue.

• Behavioral Symptoms: Avoiding places, people, or activities that trigger memories of the trauma, experiencing flashbacks or nightmares, and engaging in reckless or self-destructive behaviors.

Causes of PTSD / Trauma in Teens

PTSD can develop after a teen experiences, witnesses, or hears about a traumatic event. Common causes include:

• Abuse or Neglect: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can lead to long-term emotional distress.

• Violence or Bullying: Exposure to school violence, domestic violence, or bullying can trigger PTSD symptoms.

• Serious Accidents or Injuries: Car accidents, severe injuries, or medical trauma can have lasting psychological effects.

• Loss of a Loved One: Sudden or violent loss of a family member or friend can cause deep emotional wounds.

• Natural Disasters: Surviving events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or fires can be distressing and lead to PTSD.

Coping Strategies for Teen PTSD / Trauma

Healing from PTSD involves self-care, therapy, and support from loved ones. Effective coping strategies include:

• Developing Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, journaling, and meditation.

• Seeking Safe Social Support: Talking to trusted friends, family members, or a counselor for emotional guidance.

• Engaging in Physical Activity: Exercise can help regulate emotions and reduce stress.

• Processing Trauma with Therapy: Professional therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help teens work through their trauma.

• Creating a Sense of Routine: Structured daily activities can provide stability and reassurance.

When to Seek Professional Help

If PTSD symptoms are interfering with daily life, professional intervention is necessary. Signs that indicate the need for help include:

• Frequent and distressing flashbacks or nightmares.

• Avoidance of everyday situations due to fear or anxiety.

• Difficulty maintaining relationships and engaging in social activities.

• Increased aggression, reckless behavior, or self-harm.

• Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from reality.

How Logos Horizon Can Help

At Logos Horizon, we provide specialized support for teens struggling with PTSD / Trauma through our Teen IOP/PHP program. Our evidence-based therapies, group support, and personalized treatment plans help teens process trauma, regain confidence, and develop resilience. Our compassionate therapists work closely with teens and their families to create a safe and nurturing environment for healing.

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD / Trauma, don’t wait to seek help.

Creating Hope for Tomorrow starts with taking the first step toward recovery.

Contact Us Today to learn more about our teen PTSD / Trauma programs and how we can support you on the journey to healing.