Witnessing traumatic events, such as the Covid-19 pandemic or a serious accident can overwhelm a child's coping abilities. Other traumas such as a natural disaster or family-based traumas such as abuse or a divorce can also have a negative impact on the mental health of a child. After experiencing any of these stressful circumstances, a child may feel a diminished sense of security, leaving them with a feeling of helplessness and vulnerability. Even if a child is not directly involved in a traumatic event, such as a mass shooting, children and teens may develop symptoms of trauma due to the violent images on the news and social media. If your child or teen has experienced any sort of trauma and you are looking for a therapist in Baltimore that is right for your child, B'well Counseling offers therapy to help them on the road towards healing.
Effects of Childhood Trauma
Children struggling with trauma show varying signs of distress according to their age. While preschool children may express themselves by crying, screaming, and eating too little, elementary school children may experience difficulty with concentration and sleeping, feelings of shame, and increased anxiety. Middle and high school teenagers and may feel depressed and alone, with some developing issues with alcohol and drugs.
How Families and Caregivers Can Help Children Heal from Trauma
With the right support and tools, children and teenagers can recover from traumatic stress. Families and caregivers can help in conjunction with seeking a therapist in Baltimore who can assist in the healing process. In order to help your child overcome their trauma, begin by creating a secure space for discussion and assuring your child that he or she is safe. Let your child know the measures you're taking to make things better for him or her both at home and at school. Be sure to emphasize that the event that happened was not their fault and that they could not have done anything to stop the situation from happening. Exercise patience as well, reassuring your child that their thoughts and feelings shouldn't be a source of guilt and that all of the feelings they are sharing are important and valid.
Taking the Next Step with B'well Counseling
While initiating the healing process as a parent or caregiver can help go a long way towards rebuilding security, a professional therapist may be better equipped to methodically rebuild your child's sense of security and ease. B'well Counseling, a therapist in Baltimore County, is here to help your child cope better with stressful events he or she has been exposed to. If you think you might be noticing signs of trauma in your child's behavior or habits, get in touch with us for a professional opinion and help.
About B'well Counseling Services
B'well Counseling Services is a mental health therapy practice offering a full range of therapeutic services including behavioral therapy in Towson, MD, and the Greater Baltimore area. We believe in helping people rekindle their curiosity and reconnect to their core selves so that they can truly be well. We value wellness and connection over happiness because we understand that being able to experience the full range of human emotions and experiences is what helps us heal and grow. At B'well, we are dedicated to creating a space for anyone who has ever felt unwelcome because of their identity, orientation, or expression.