Teenagers come to Trails Carolina for help with coping mechanisms, confidence, and communication skills to help them become the best person they can be. While the team at Trails Carolina is capable of treating many different issues, post-traumatic stress disorder can be a common problem teens are working on.
Commonly referred to as PTSD, untreated teenagers can develop aggression and other issues. Getting necessary help makes a difference, and wilderness therapy programs, like Trails Carolina, can be one way to provide that.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a condition that comes from some type of trauma experience. Every person reacts differently, as symptoms can include loneliness, sleeping issues, concentration problems, and more. While some symptoms can be relatively mild, others experience massive changes that require assistance to get back on track.
Developing PTSD can also stem from a variety of reasons. Some go through a severe injury or near-death experience. Others have lived through natural disasters, abuse, accidents, and more. The devastating memories linger, and a person’s natural response system might not return to normal.
Signs That a Teenager is Dealing with PTSD
Teenagers experiencing PTSD usually show multiple signs of emotional, physical, and mental distress. Some might never get over a particular event. Others could have symptoms show up years after an event. The longer they linger, the more likely they could last a lifetime without professional help.
A symptom that is particularly problematic for teenagers is aggression. It’s common for teenagers to feel on edge, as they are always wondering if trauma can happen again. Angry teenagers have a ton of related issues if untreated. Letting a teenager remain angry can create many problems that only escalate as time goes on.
Why Does PTSD Cause Aggression?
With PTSD, there are neurological changes in the brain. Every teenager reacts differently, but some will show additional signs of aggressiveness and damaging behavior. Researchers have been trying to find what causes aggression in some and not others, But there are still some unknowns.
It’s usually a response to a fight or flight dilemma. When aroused by perceived threats, they kick into survival mode. Even if they know aggression isn’t the answer, the body responds in a way that can be difficult to control without professional assistance.
Handling PTSD for Teenagers
Parents can help their teenagers with PTSD in various ways. Teenagers react differently to specific approaches, but most will try a few options out first.
Addressing Anger
Using anger as a positive can be one way to handle this severe PTSD issue. Exercise is one of the best ways to do precisely that. Finding a sport or activity that can burn energy can make anger fade away.
Not only does this act as an escape, but it can help students find a passion and get into excellent shape. They have found that finding an outlet has worked in the past.
Taking a Break
If frustration starts, it’s worth considering a break that will help reset everything. It allows a teenager to calm down and feel much more relaxed. Don’t start back up until anger has subsided.
Trying to push through certain situations can lead to a disaster. There needs to be time for students to breathe a bit and calm down without feeling pushed. Patience is vital at times, as it alleviates a lot of the pressure surrounding a situation.
Support
There are support groups out there for people living with PTSD. Those who come through similar traumas can relate to each other. Some teenagers might not have any way to talk about their problems since no one truly understands.
Even if help is coming from the right place, it’s hard to talk about trauma with someone who can’t relate. Finding just one person for extra support can make a difference. Having a support group has helped numerous teenagers manage their issues.
Why Families are Optimistic About Teenage PTSD
With numerous solutions to overcome PTSD for teenagers, parents can know their teens can get the help they need. A wilderness therapy program like Trails Carolina is a great way to go for more assistance.
Eliminating anger issues stemming from PTSD can clear up related issues as well. With the right approach, teenagers are back to living their best life. This is a positive not only for them, but it helps heal an entire family upon return.
Related: The most crucial reasons to prioritize your health and how to do it