Trauma and Acute Stress Disorder in Children and Adolescents
Contents
Diagnosis and Treatment
Stressful or overwhelming events can lead to mental health problems in children and young people. These include, amongst others, post-traumatic stress disorder, acute stress disorder and adjustment disorders. Possible triggers include, for example, experiences of violence or abuse, neglect, serious accidents, sudden bereavements or natural disasters.
Reactions to traumatic events vary greatly from person to person. Common symptoms include increased anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, recurring distressing memories (e.g. intrusive thoughts), difficulties concentrating, or changes in social behaviour. As a result, affected children and young people can quickly feel overwhelmed or helpless in their day-to-day lives. An early professional assessment can help to understand the symptoms and plan appropriate support.
Adjustment Disorders in Childhood and Adolescence
Adjustment disorders can occur when children or young people are faced with changes or stressful life situations that they find difficult to cope with using their existing resources. In a school setting, adjustment problems may manifest themselves in ways such as a decline in academic performance, difficulties concentrating, truancy or social conflicts.
Physical symptoms such as recurring stomach aches or headaches with no clear physical cause, as well as withdrawal or aggressive behaviour, can also be signs of psychological strain. A professional assessment can help to better understand the causes and identify appropriate measures.
Treatment of Trauma and Adjustment Disorders in Children and Adolescents
At the Verus Clinic, we support children and young people experiencing trauma-related symptoms, acute stress reactions or adjustment disorders, as well as their families, using a personalised, professionally grounded treatment approach. The aim is to provide guidance, help make sense of the stress they are experiencing, and support stabilisation and practical coping strategies for everyday life.
Our approach is holistic in nature and takes into account psychological, physical and social aspects. Treatment takes place in a structured, supportive environment that conveys a sense of security, transparency and reliability. Trust, respect and empathy form the basis of our therapeutic work.
The multi-disciplinary team at the Verus Clinic takes into account each patient’s individual life story, family background and any current stressors in order to develop appropriate support services.
Therapeutic Approaches to Trauma, Acute Stress Disorder and Adjustment Disorders
Treatment usually requires a nuanced, multi-dimensional approach. Therapeutic measures are tailored to the patient’s age, stage of development, symptoms and resources.
Possible treatment approaches include, amongst others:
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (e.g. to reduce anxiety and promote stability)
- Systemic therapy involving the family
- Psychotherapeutic approaches based on depth psychology
- Stabilisation and resource-based work
- Work with parents and carers
- Measures
to provide structure and support in everyday life
Where there is a medical indication, the use of medication may be considered as a complementary measure, particularly for the treatment of associated symptoms. The decision is always made following careful assessment by a specialist.
Symptoms of Trauma and Adjustment Disorders in Children and Young People
The symptoms may initially be non-specific and progress in different ways. Symptoms may appear immediately after a stressful event or intensify after a delay.
Possible signs may include:
- Physical symptoms (e.g. headaches or stomach aches)
- Persistent tiredness and exhaustion
- Irritability or heightened emotional tension
- Anxiety or withdrawal
- A low mood, listlessness or apathy
- Sleep disturbances or nightmares
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulties concentrating and a
decline in performance
Not all symptoms occur at the same time. Their severity may vary depending on the situation.
Diagnosis of Trauma and Adjustment Disorders
Diagnosis at the Verus Clinic is based on a thorough, detailed assessment carried out by experienced specialist staff. This includes in-depth discussions with the child or young person, as well as with their parents or carers. Standardised questionnaires, behavioural observations and psychological testing may also be used to supplement this process.
The aim of the diagnostic assessment is to gain a well-founded overall picture, to rule out any possible physical causes, to understand stress-inducing factors, and to distinguish trauma-related symptoms from other mental health or developmental disorders. On this basis, an individualised treatment and support plan can be developed.
Personal Advice
Do you have any questions about the diagnosis or treatment of trauma, acute stress disorder or adjustment disorders in children and young people?
We would be happy to discuss our services and possible next steps with you in a face-to-face consultation.
Our treatment methods
How We Can Treat You and Help You
Diagnostic procedures at the Verus Clinic therefore include a detailed initial medical history, selected psychological tests and the latest neuropsychological assessment methods.
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Group Psychotherapy
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Individual Psychotherapy
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Relaxation Treatment
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Trauma Therapy
Treatment methods About the Treatment Trauma arises when our physical and/or psychological integrity is violated and the person affected is left feeling helpless, at the
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