Recognising the Signs of Trauma
Every adolescent reacts differently, but trauma can often show up as changes in mood, behaviour,
or learning. You might notice your child:
- Becomes withdrawn, flat, or emotionally numb
- Has sudden outbursts or strong emotional reactions
- Struggles with sleep, appetite, or concentration
- Experiences flashbacks, nightmares, or seems “spaced out” Appears anxious, irritable, or overly
alert to danger - Regresses in behaviour (e.g., clinginess, self-soothing habits, enuresis)
- Avoids people, places, or topics that remind them of distressing events
These signs can overlap with depression or anxiety — and sometimes trauma is the underlying driver of those conditions.
A Trauma-Informed Approach for Parents
The heart of trauma-informed care is safety, connection, and choice. Parents can support this by:
- Creating safety – Keep routines predictable, avoid shouting or sudden punishment, and offer calm reassurance.
- Focusing on connection – Be emotionally available, even if your teen withdraws.
- Small gestures — a meal together, a quiet drive, or a shared hobby — rebuild trust.
- Staying curious, not critical – Ask “What might have happened to cause this?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?”
- Supporting regulation – Encourage grounding activities like walking, deep breathing, music, or time with pets.
- Modelling calm – Adolescents often mirror adult emotional tone; your calm presence can lower their internal alarm.
Pathways for Help and Treatment
If you suspect your adolescent is struggling with trauma, professional help can make a profound
difference.
- School Counsellor or Psychologist – Can provide support, screening, and guidance.
- General Practitioner (GP) – First point of contact for referral to mental health specialists.
- Trauma-Informed Therapists – Psychologists trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, or somatic therapies.
- Community Services – Headspace, local mental health teams, or child and adolescent trauma
services.
Early intervention can reduce the risk of chronic anxiety, depression, or self-harming
behaviours.
Final Message
Trauma-informed care is not about “fixing” your child — it’s about understanding their behaviour
through the lens of safety and healing. When adolescents feel seen, believed, and supported, they
can begin to rebuild trust and move toward recovery
