What is the post- traumatic stress disorder?
A child or adolescent who experiences a catastrophic event may develop ongoing difficulties known as post traumatic stress disorder which makes unable to deal with the situation. The stressful or traumatic event involves a situation where someone’s life has been threatened or severe injury has occurred like they may be the victim or a witness of physical abuse, violence in the home or in the community, automobile accident, natural disasters, or being diagnosed with life threatening illness.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?
There are number of symptoms such as losing interest in activities, having physical symptoms such as headaches and stomachs, worrying about dying at an early age, having problems falling or staying asleep, having problems concentrating, showing irritability or angry outbursts, acting younger than their age, showing more sudden and extreme emotional reactions, repeating behaviour that reminds them of the trauma or showing increased alertness to the environment.

How to deal with PTSD?
Early intervention is essential. Support from parents and schools are important. Psychotherapy, which allows the child to speak, draw, play, or write about the event is helpful. Behaviour modification techniques and cognitive therapy may help reduce fear and worries. Medication may also be useful to deal with agitation, anxiety or depression. Child and adolescent psychiatrists can be very helpful in diagnosing and treating children with PTSD. Sensitivity and support of professional, youngsters, families can help the child to learn to cope with the memories of the trauma and go on to lead healthy and productive life.

Last updated on 01-03-2007