Can a 15-Year-Old be Diagnosed with PTSD? Exploring Trauma Therapy for Teens in Lee’s Summit

Being a teenager is a time when you’re discovering a lot, not only about yourself, but about the surrounding world. It can also be a challenge. If something really tough happens, like a traumatic experience, it might stick with teens and cause issues. Parents of a struggling teen might wonder if a 15-year-old can be diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In this exploration of trauma therapy for teens in Lee's Summit, follow our PTSD therapists while we navigate symptoms of PTSD, the consequences of leaving it untreated in a child. In addition to effective treatment methods for adolescents and practical ways parents can support their child through the healing process.

What are the Symptoms of PTSD?

Photo by Kinga Howard on Unsplash downloaded 3/11/24

It’s really important for everyone, especially parents, to notice if their teenager might be struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). When teenagers are struggling with PTSD they may show signs similar to adults, like having memories that pop up, bad dreams, or feeling like the scary thing is happening again. Your teen might also get really emotional or have strong reactions when reminded or what happened. They may also avoid certain people, places, or things or feel down and depressed, which can also be signs that your teen is dealing with PTSD. It is so important to make sure that both teen and parent understand the symptoms of PTSD so your teen can get the help they deserve. 

What Happens if PTSD is Left Untreated in a Child?

Not helping a child with PTSD, especially during the important teenage years can cause lasting problems. Untreated PTSD may lead to other mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or even substance abuse. Other things, such as school and academic performance and relationships with family and friends can suffer, and cause even more mental health concerns. It is important for parents, and caregivers to step in and help with PTSD as soon as possible to help avoid these long-term problems. 

How is PTSD Treated in Adolescence?

Photo by Raphael Nast on Unsplash downloaded 3/11/24.

It’s really important to find the best therapy for teenagers struggling with trauma, or traumatic experiences. Trauma therapy for teens use methods that are proven to work, and are customized to fit each teen’s unique needs. One effective method is called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps teens recognize and change negative thoughts and behaviors, and redirects into more positive thoughts and behaviors. This gives them ways to handle tough feelings caused by trauma. 

In addition to CBT, there is another method called Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is another method for treating PTSD in teens. EMDR involves moving your eyes while remembering triggering or tough things. Using this method can help make it easier to deal with previous traumatic experiences. 

In Lee’s Summit, counseling provides a safe, and supportive space for teens going through trauma therapy. Our therapists specialize in helping teens, and parents, by giving them the tools they need to deal with PTSD, along with fostering resilience, and promoting positive mental health.

How Can I Help My Child with PTSD?

Supporting a teenager with PTSD requires multiple approaches that combines professional guidance with parental involvement. Here are some ways to help your child navigate the challenges of PTSD:

 Open Communication:

Create a place where your teen feels safe and comfortable to talk. Tell them it is okay and welcome to share what they’re thinking and feeling. Listen without judging and encourage them to talk about the things that happened. Let them know their feelings are valid and reassure them that sharing is also ok. It might be hard for your teen to talk about their feelings and the traumatic experience, so, creating a safe space is important for the first step to sharing and reaching out for help. 

Seek Professional Help:

Recognize that getting help from a professional is an incredibly important part of helping your teen feel better. Our trauma experts, like our skilled therapists in Lee’s Summit Missouri, understand and know a lot about the specific issues that come with being a teenager struggling with PTSD. Know that asking for professional help is not a sign of being weak, or that you are a terrible parent- it is a strong and smart choice, that can improve your teen’s life, and everyday experience. Work together with your teen to find a therapist who knows about PTSD, and make sure they have the right experience and approach that fits well with your teen’s unique needs. 

Educate Yourself

As a parent guiding your teen through tough times like PTSD and therapy, it might feel a bit scary. But, taking the time to learn is a strong tool. Knowing more about your teen’s mental health and tough experiences will hep you give them the right support, making them feeling heard and helping them on their path to better mental health. You can learn, and educate yourself in different ways, like finding good sources for detailed learning, joining groups where people share similar experiences, or talking to a therapist, either your or your teen’s. Learning is not just powerful for you, but also for your teen. 

Photo by Prophsee Journals on Unsplash downloaded 3/11/24.

Establish Routine and Stability

Having a plan and a routine can help teens with PTSD feel more stable. Make a set schedule that makes them feel safe and secure. Having routine gives them a sense of safety and knowing what to expect, which is important when dealing with PTSD. It can also make them feel less anxious and help control their emotions. Try to include your teen in making the plan, and create a daily or weekly schedule that also has your teens input about what they like, what they need to do, and what they’re committed to. Keep the routine steady, but be ok with changes if something unexpected happens. 

 Encourage Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Encourage your child to find and use good ways to deal with tough or stressful times. This could mean doing creative stuff, being active, or trying mindfulness practices. It’s important to discover what works best for them to stay strong and positive. 

Foster Connections

Support your teen to make good connections with friends, family, and people who support them. Having healthy relationships is really important for getting better. Make sure your family talks openly with each other. Create a place where your teen feels safe sharing their thoughts and feelings without being afraid of judgment. Also, support and encourage your teen’s friendships. Friends are a great way to get extra support and a chance to socialize out of the family.

Empowering Adolescents: Navigating Trauma Towards Resilience

The questions “Can a 15-year-old be diagnosed with PTSD?” shows how important it is to notice and deal with tough experiences in teenagers. Therapy for teen’s who have been through hard times, especially in Lee’s Summit Missouri, is a way to get, and feel better. If parents know the signs, what can happen if PTSD isn’t treated, and how to treat it, they can really help their child through the journey of getting past tough times and becoming stronger for the future. 

Counseling in Lee’s Summit Missouri

At Aspire Counseling, our therapists understand how tough it is to see your teen going through a hard time. Our counselors are here to help not just teens but also parents dealing with tough feelings like PTSD, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, OCD, LGBTQ+ and more. 

Your or your teen can get counseling in person at our Lee’s Summit MO location, or our Columbia MO location, or online from anywhere in Missouri. Reach out to us through our online form, or call us at 573. 328. 2288 ext. 1. A member of our Client Care Team will help you find a therapist and see up a free 30- minute consultation. Start your teen’s journey with Aspire Counseling!