Trauma and PTSD
What is trauma?
Trauma is when a kid goes through something scary or hurtful, and it bothers them for a long time.
What is physical abuse?
Physical abuse is when a grown-up hurts a kid (the grown-up breaks the body part rules). When somebody hurts someone else's body, that's breaking the rules and that's not okay.
Why do kids go to therapy?
Kids go to therapy when they have been through scary things, and they want to feel better.
How does trauma (like physical abuse) affect kids?
Some kids feel angry or sad. Some kids have nightmares or scary memories. Some kids act out and get into trouble. Some kids get jumpy or nervous.
How do kids who are physically abused feel?
Many kids feel sad, scared, confused, or angry.
What do you do in therapy?
You talk about your feelings, and you learn new things to help you feel better. You shrink your trauma bully.
Do kids who have gone through trauma get better?
Yes. Most kids (4 out of 5) who do this therapy get better. And most kids get better over time.
Is physical abuse ever okay?
No! Physical abuse breaks the body part rules. Hurting kids is never okay, even when the kid gets in trouble.
What is a trauma bully?
A trauma bully is what keeps bothering us after we have gone through something scary. The trauma bully makes us feel bad, or act out, or have bad dreams or memories. In therapy, we shrink the trauma bully so that it does not bother you as much.
How do kids heal from trauma?
Learning to calm down their bodies, think differently, and get help from others. Kids practice new skills to feel better, and do not try to "run" from scary memories.
What should kids do when they are physically abused?
Kids should tell their teacher, a neighbor, or another adult (like a therapist). Kids should always tell when they are hurt by a grown-up (when a grown-up breaks the body part rules).
How will we know you're feeling better from therapy?
We'll keep track of 2 or 3 trauma symptoms that bother you the most. We'll also ask about how you're feeling in general.
Why do kids have PTSD symptoms after going through trauma?
Because their bodies are trying to protect themselves! Their bodies are trying to stay safe. But when the scary thing is gone, those symptoms can get in the way and make us feel worse.
Why don’t some kids tell about physical abuse?
Some kids are scared of getting into trouble. Some kids are scared of the grown-up getting into trouble. And some kids just don't know any better.
How do parents or caregivers help in therapy?
They learn the same things you learn, they help keep track of how you feel, and they get better at supporting you. They will help your trauma bully shrink.