How to Talk to Teens About Trauma and Traumatic Events
Experiencing a traumatic event can have a significant impact on anyone’s mental health, but it can be especially challenging for teenagers. Teenagers are still in the process of developing their emotional regulation skills, and their brains are still growing and changing. When a traumatic event occurs, teenagers may experience a range of emotions, including fear, anger, anxiety, and sadness. As a parent or caregiver, it’s important to know how to talk to teens after traumatic events to help them process their emotions and move forward.
Here are some tips for talking to teens about trauma:
- Be Available: One of the most important things you can do for your teenager after a traumatic event is to make yourself available. Let them know that you are there to listen and support them. Give them the space they need to talk about what happened when they feel ready to do so. Be patient and non-judgmental, and let them know that their feelings are valid.
- Be Honest: It’s important to be honest with your teenager about what happened. Don’t try to sugarcoat the situation or downplay the severity of the event. Teens are often more aware of the world around them than we give them credit for, and they can tell when adults are not being truthful. Tell them what you know and what you don’t know, and don’t make promises that you can’t keep.
- Validate Their Feelings: It’s essential to validate your teenager’s feelings after a traumatic event. Let them know that it’s normal to feel scared, angry, or sad after such an experience. Acknowledge that what they are feeling is real and that it’s okay to express their emotions. Avoid trying to minimize their feelings or telling them to “just get over it.” Remember, everyone’s emotional journey is different, and it’s important to support your teenager through theirs.
- Offer Support: It’s important to offer support to your teenager after a traumatic event. This can include therapy, counseling, or even just talking to a trusted friend or family member. Let your teenager know that there are resources available to them if they need help processing their emotions or dealing with the aftermath of the traumatic event. Offer to accompany them to therapy sessions or support groups if they need it.
- Focus on Positive Coping Strategies: Encourage your teenager to engage in positive coping strategies after a traumatic event. This can include exercise, creative outlets like writing or drawing, spending time with friends or family, or volunteering in their community. Encourage them to avoid unhealthy coping strategies like alcohol or drug use, which can make their emotions more difficult to manage.
Talking to teenagers after traumatic events can be challenging, but it’s essential to their emotional well-being. Being available, honest, and supportive can help your teenager process their emotions and move forward. Remember, everyone’s emotional journey is different, and it’s important to support your teenager through theirs.
How ROWI Can Help
Engaging in mental health treatment is another way to support your teen. ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers can help you and your teenager if you’ve experienced a traumatic event. Each of our clients receives a treatment plan that will support them in meeting their goals. Programs are individualized in order to meet each client and family where they are at in the process. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, verifying your insurance, and get you, your family, and teen started on your journey to mental wellness.