In today's society, many factors will have an impact on our children. Trauma can manifest itself in a variety of ways, affecting a child's physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. Every child is unique and will react differently to a threat. It is critical to notice changes in your child; they may have witnessed or experienced an event that continues to haunt them, causing ongoing pain or sadness. Traumatic experiences can be a single event or a series of events that have an impact on a child's social emotional learning at home, school, or in their global community. Stressful situations cause the nervous system to release cortisol and adrenalin. This then activates a child's flight, fright, or freeze response, resulting in changes in behavior or emotions.
A traumatic event could be:
• Separation or divorce
• Relocation of family or friends
• Arrest or incarceration of a relative or friend
• Physical or sexual abuse
• Emotional abuse or neglect
• Major accident
• Natural disaster
• Financial instability
• Danger of violence (at home or in the community)
• Bullying
• Death of a family member or pet
Signs of childhood trauma that may be present in your child
• Aches and pains felt in the body
• Low levels of energy or weariness • Alterations in sleep habits or appetite • Irritability, depression, or anxiety • Changes in appetite
• Trouble focusing or coming to a conclusion when necessary
• Having a sense of dread
• Repetitive and unwanted thoughts of things that have happened in the past
• Unsettling dreams or thoughts
• Separation from others and a loss of interest in activities
Advice on how to speak with your child and help him or her heal.
• React to your child with compassion and composure when they are upset.
• Give your youngster your undivided attention and validate their emotions.
• Try to stick to the same schedule every day for your meals, your sleep, and your exercise.
• Whenever it's possible, involve your child in family decision-making, and give them choices that are appropriate for their age.
• Try to reduce the amount of tension that isn't essential at home.
• Show your child how to unwind and take it easy.
• Minimize media exposure.
• Make time for your family a top priority.
• Establish a network of support for both your family and your child.
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