Recognising Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress in Children: A Guide for Parents

As parents, we want nothing more than for our children to grow up happy, healthy, and safe. But sometimes, life throws challenges their way—events that leave invisible wounds. Trauma in children can be tricky to spot because it often doesn’t look like what we expect. Instead of clear distress, it may show up in changes in behaviour, mood, or even their ability to concentrate at school.

If you’ve noticed something feels "off" with your child, you’re not alone. Recognising the signs early and seeking professional support can make a world of difference. ❤️

Signs Your Child May Be Struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress

Children process distress differently from adults. Here are some common signs that might indicate your child is struggling with trauma:

🌀 Emotional Changes – Sudden mood swings, intense fear, sadness, or anger that seem out of place.

😞 Withdrawal – Avoiding family or friends, losing interest in things they used to enjoy.

😡 Increased Irritability or Aggression – More tantrums, defiance, or lashing out at others.

😴 Sleep Difficulties – Nightmares, trouble falling asleep, or waking up frequently.

🚫 Avoidance – Steering clear of certain people, places, or topics that remind them of a distressing event.

😰 Heightened Anxiety or Clinginess – Becoming overly fearful, needing constant reassurance, or developing new phobias.

🩹 Physical Complaints – Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or unexplained aches and pains.

📚 Struggles at School – Drop in grades, difficulty focusing, or conflicts with teachers and peers.

If these signs sound familiar, it’s okay to feel concerned—but remember, trauma is not a life sentence. With the right support, healing is possible. 💙

Why Professional Help Matters?

Children don’t always have the words to express their pain, so they show it through behaviours. While love and support at home are crucial, professional therapy provides a safe space for them to process their experiences and develop healthy coping strategies. Here’s why seeking help is important:

🧠 Trauma Can Impact Brain Development – Unresolved trauma can affect a child’s ability to regulate emotions, concentrate, and form healthy relationships.

💬 A Safe Space to Talk – A trained therapist can help your child make sense of what they’ve been through and learn ways to manage their feelings.

🌱 Building Resilience – Therapy can empower children with skills to navigate stress, fear, and uncertainty in a healthy way.

🤝 Family Support & Guidance – Many therapists work with parents too, offering strategies to support your child’s healing journey at home.

You Are Not Alone

If you suspect your child has experienced trauma, don’t blame yourself. Life can be unpredictable, and what matters most is how we respond moving forward. Seeking professional support is a powerful step towards helping your child heal and thrive.

Vernon Koh

Senior Counsellor