When someone mentions PTSD, what comes to mind? For most, it’s an image related to a solider that has experienced some intense tragedy in war. While this type of adversity can definitely result in PTSD, it’s not the only challenge that can lead to it. No one really thinks of teenagers needing PTSD help, but it’s actually an issue that many face. Trauma or PTSD can be caused by anything from bullying to losing a loved one–the possibilities are endless (unfortunately).
Expectedly, this generalization that only soldiers can have PTSD can lead to many young people feeling as if they have nowhere to turn—this is far from the truth, though. Many PTSD help options exist for struggling teens, but many parents don’t know they exist; which is why we’ve compiled a list of therapies and programs that help with trauma and PTSD.
Options for teens struggling with PTSD or trauma
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This type of therapy can be extremely effective as trauma or PTSD help for adolescents. CBT focuses on taking bleak, damaging thoughts and replacing them with helpful, constructive ones. Especially if a child is having issues with memories of their trauma, CBT can be a great first route.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Now EMDR takes a slightly different approach–by combining cognitive therapy and directed eye movements, EMDR has been found to be effective in treating trauma and PTSD. Though it’s been found to be effective, certain aspects of it are still being argued on whether they’re necessary or not, but the strategy is still widely used and helpful as PTSD help.
Therapy & Medication
This isn’t always necessary, but it all depends on what specific issues an individual faces. If the trauma or PTSD they’re experiencing has morphed into a dual diagnosis with anxiety or depression, medication could be used in combination with therapy in order to get the desired outcome.
Residential treatment
Residential treatment is an intensive, full-bodied therapeutic experience that cannot be found elsewhere. It takes a teen and places them in a fully immersive environment in which they receive 24/7 support and care. This often allows an individual to take a breath and truly begin to move forward in their healing process.
As you can see above, there are many options available for PTSD help–and those are just the common ones. There are opportunities and programs which can help your family get back on their feet, you just have to seek them out.
Solstice East offers PTSD help for teen girls
Solstice East is a residential treatment center which offers PTSD help for girls, ages 14 to 18. Our girls often grapple with depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and other emotional or behavioral problems when they come to us. In our PTSD help, we strive to help students develop healthy habits and lead themselves back onto a path of success and happiness through meaningful therapy and a nurturing environment.
For more information about PTSD help at Solstice East can help your daughter, please contact us at 828-484-9946.