We are back, and focused on trauma– hard to know just where to begin with a topic as nuanced and as endemic as trauma, but here goes– a few things we learned during our research:
1. While the clinical definition of “trauma” refers to the body’s response to a life-threatening event, children’s interpretation of “life-threatening” can look a bit different. Even if the triggering event was not strictly life-threatening, if the event involved betrayal by someone on whom the child relies for survival, or an event that deeply frightened the child, the trauma can still exist– as can symptoms of PTSD.
2. There are many classifications within the larger topic of trauma– here are a few:
- Community violence
- Complex trauma
- Domestic violence
- Early childhood trauma
- Pediatric medical traumatic stress
- Natural disasters
- Child neglect
- Physical abuse
- Refugee and war zone trauma
- School violence
- Traumatic grief
3. Unlike adults, many of whom instinctively respond to trauma by pushing away and denying thoughts of the event, young children can respond by re-creating the traumatic event in their play. This can frighten and worry parents and caregivers, but it can be a critical part of the child’s healing process. Supporting the child’s play and being close by to correct misconceptions or offer empathic responses can be an important way to help a child make sense of the event and begin to recover a sense of equilibrium.
4. If you’re reading this, chances are good that you are or you know someone in the field of pediatrics– guess what? Those people are at an elevated risk for PTSD as well, due to the secondary trauma (also called burn-out or compassion fatigue) experienced by those who are exposed to trauma on a regular basis. Symptoms of PTSD can include: flashbacks/ intrusive thoughts/ nightmares, insomnia, fatigue, avoidance, and an increased startle response or hyper-vigilance. To minimize the risk of PTSD due to secondary trauma, professionals in pediatrics (and other traumatic occupations) should stay involved with their social support network, practice self-care, and strongly consider working with a mentor for professional guidance and/ or a therapist for emotional support.
5. Recovery is absolutely possible! The three strategies that have been recommended most are:
- Don’t isolate yourself, even if that’s what feels easiest. Ask for support, from a friend, family member, trained professional, support group, or hotline.
- Try to stay present. Allow your feelings to be there– acknowledge them, don’t push them away, and then try to return to your daily routine.
- Take care of yourself! You’ve heard it all before, but it’s important to get sleep, exercise, eat well, and find ways to cut down on day-to-day stressors.
healplaylove 