Understanding Child Trauma

“It’s important to recognize the signs of traumatic stress and its short- and long-term impact.

The signs of traumatic stress may be different in each child. Young children may react differently than older children.

Preschool Children

• Fear being separated from their parent/caregive
• Cry or scream a lot
• Eat poorly or lose weight
• Have nightmares

Elementary School Children

• Become anxious or fearful
• Feel guilt or shame
• Have a hard time concentrating
• Have difficulty sleeping

Middle and High School Children

• Feel depressed or alone
• Develop eating disorders or self-harming behaviors
• Begin abusing alcohol or drugs
• Become involved in risky sexual behavior”