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Trauma

If your child is struggling with the effects of trauma, we have information and advice to help you support them to heal, and to find the right professional help if needed.

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What is trauma?

Trauma is an emotional, psychological and physical response to an event, or series of events, that feels frightening, overwhelming or threatening. It usually involves a threat to a  physical or emotional safety, and can leave someone feeling powerless, trapped or unsupported.

Trauma can result from a single event, like a serious accident or assault, or from repeated or ongoing experiences like bullying, neglect or domestic abuse. Children and young people can also be affected by witnessing traumatic events happening to other people.

Examples of experiences that may be traumatic include: 

  • physical, emotional or sexual abuse  

  • domestic abuse or violence  

  • bullying, including online bullying  

  • racism, homophobia, transphobia or other forms of discrimination  

  • serious accidents or injuries  

  • sudden bereavement, including losing someone to suicide  

  • serious illness or spending time in hospital  

  • neglect  

  • exposure to frightening or inappropriate online content  

  • war, conflict or forced displacement.

Not everyone experiences the same event in the same way. An experience that is traumatic for one child may not be for another.

A child's culture, identity, family experiences and community can all shape how they experience trauma and how they express distress. It's important to remember that there is no single or “normal” way to respond to trauma.

A boy in a blue denim shirt looks at his phone while sitting down against a grey sofa with a purple wall.

It’s also important to note that trauma is not a mental health condition on its own. However, experiencing trauma can increase the likelihood of developing mental health difficulties for some children and young people. This can include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or eating disorders.  

Trauma can also affect the whole family. Many parents tell us that supporting a child after a traumatic experience can change family routines, relationships and their own wellbeing. Looking after yourself and seeking support when you need it is an important part of helping your child recover.

It has had a huge impact – the epitome of the ripple effect, where others around you feel it and it reaches all aspects of your life. It's something that you carry with you.
Parent

Signs a child or young person may be affected by trauma

A young child's hands and a parent's hands holding.

Every child and young person's response to trauma is different. Some show signs of distress straight away, while others may not seem affected until weeks, months or even years later. Their feelings and behaviour may also change over time. They might seem to be coping well for a while before finding things more difficult, or their symptoms may come and go. 
 
Trauma can affect children's emotions, behaviour, relationships, physical health and ability to learn. Some children become anxious or withdrawn, while others may appear angry, irritable or overwhelmed. These responses are often signs that a child is trying to cope with something that feels frightening or unsafe.

  • intrusive thoughts, memories or flashbacks about what happened  

  • avoiding places, people or situations that remind them of the experience  

  • becoming unusually alert or easily startled (sometimes called ‘hypervigilance’)  

  • finding it difficult to manage their emotions, which may lead to anger, distress or emotional outbursts  

  • withdrawing from family, friends or activities they usually enjoy  

  • seeming emotionally numb, disconnected or ‘zoned out’ 

  • finding it difficult to concentrate or engage at school, changes in school attendance or avoiding school  

  • difficulty sleeping, nightmares or changes in appetite  

  • physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches with no obvious medical cause  

  • blaming themselves, feeling guilty or struggling with self-esteem  

  • using coping strategies like self-harm or alcohol and drugs to manage difficult feelings. 

PTSD and complex-PSTD

Most children and young people who experience trauma don’t develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, some find that trauma has a lasting impact on their mental health and daily life. 

PTSD is a condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. People with PTSD may continue to experience symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, avoiding reminders of what happened, feeling constantly on edge or becoming easily startled. These symptoms can make it difficult to manage everyday life, relationships and school.

Others are diagnosed with something called complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD). CPTSD usually develops after repeated traumatic experiences, particularly when they happen during childhood or involve someone the child should have been able to trust, like a parent or caregiver. This might include things like abuse, neglect, domestic abuse, or experiences of discrimination.

Alongside the symptoms of PTSD, children and young people with CPTSD may also experience difficulties managing emotions, low self-esteem and problems trusting or maintaining relationships.

If you're worried your child may have PTSD or CPTSD, speak to your GP or another healthcare professional. They can assess your child's needs and discuss whether they would benefit from specialist support. Many children and young people recover with the right support, and early help can make a difference.

You can find out more about getting support from your GP in our guide for parents and carers. 

Getting support from the GP

How to support a child or young person after trauma

There is no single “right” way to help a child recover from trauma. Every child responds differently, and recovery can take time. Some children seem to cope well at first and find things harder later, while others show signs of distress immediately. 
 
Many children recover with the support of trusted adults, safe relationships and stable routines. Others may benefit from professional support. The most important thing is to stay connected with your child, notice changes in how they're feeling or behaving, and seek help if you're worried. 

Traumatic experiences often leave children feeling unsafe or out of control. Creating a sense of safety can support recovery. 
 
You can do this by: 

  • keeping daily routines as consistent as possible  

  • explaining changes in advance where you can  

  • spending regular time together  

  • reassuring them that they are loved and supported  

  • helping them know who they can talk to if they're struggling  

If the source of the trauma is ongoing – for example bullying, abuse or discrimination – it's important to seek help to make the situation safe. Children cannot begin to recover while the traumatic experience is still happening. 

Talking about a traumatic experience can help some children make sense of what has happened, but others may need more time before they feel ready. 
 
Let your child know they can talk whenever they want to, without forcing conversations before they're ready. Listening calmly, without judgement or rushing to solve the problem, can help them feel understood and supported. 
 
If you're not sure how to start a conversation, our guide to talking to your child about their mental health can help. 

Children often worry that their reactions are “wrong” or that no one understands what they're going through. 

Try to acknowledge and validate their feelings, even if you don't fully understand their experience. You don't need to have all the answers – simply letting them know that it's okay to feel frightened, angry, confused or upset can make a difference. 

Trauma affects much more than emotions. Spending time together doing activities your child enjoys can help them feel connected, relaxed and safe, even if only for short periods. 
 
This might include: 

  • drawing, painting or colouring  

  • building with Lego or making something creative  

  • baking or cooking together  

  • playing sport or going for a walk  

  • listening to music  

  • watching a favourite film  

  • reading together  

These activities don't replace talking about trauma, but they can help children regulate their emotions and strengthen your relationship. 

Some children find it helpful to create a self-soothe box filled with comforting objects and activities they can turn to when they're feeling overwhelmed. 

Supporting a child after trauma can be emotionally demanding. Many parents tell us that trauma affects the whole family, and it's common to feel worried, overwhelmed or unsure what to do next.

Looking after your own wellbeing isn't selfish. It can help you feel better able to support your child. Try to seek support from people you trust, and don't be afraid to ask for professional advice if you need it. 

Three young people sit on a bench talking and laughing. The person on the left has their back to the camera and wears a dark blue jacket. The person in the middle has long wavy hair and wears a black and white jacket. The person on the right has curly hair and wears a green jacket.

Neurodiversity and trauma

Children and young people with autism or ADHD are more likely to experience traumatic events like bullying, exclusion, or abuse4. Trauma can also affect them differently, and some signs of trauma may overlap with characteristics of autism or ADHD. 

Rather than looking for a specific set of symptoms, it can be helpful to notice changes in your child. For example, they may become more anxious, withdraw from activities they usually enjoy, experience more frequent meltdowns, find it harder to cope with everyday routines, or become more sensitive to sensory experiences. 

If you're worried that your child's behaviour has changed following a traumatic experience, speak to a healthcare professional who understands both trauma and neurodiversity. 

Finding professional support

A girl sitting in the park wearing headphones. She is looking down at her phone and listening to music.

If your child or young person is struggling after a traumatic experience, you don't have to manage it on your own. While many children recover with the support of trusted adults, some benefit from additional help from professionals.

Finding the right support isn't always straightforward. Many parents tell us they face long waiting times or have to explain their child's experiences repeatedly before getting the right help. If your first attempt doesn't lead to the support your child needs, it's okay to ask questions, seek a second opinion, or go back if things change or get worse. 

It's a good idea to speak to a GP or mental health professional if: 

  • your child's symptoms continue for several weeks or are getting worse  

  • trauma is affecting their everyday life, such as school, friendships or family relationships  

  • they're having frequent nightmares, flashbacks or panic attacks  

  • they're avoiding everyday activities because they feel unsafe  

  • they're self-harming or using alcohol or drugs to cope  

  • they've talked about wanting to die or you have concerns about their safety. 

If you're worried about your child's mental health or how they're coping after trauma, your GP is usually the best place to start.

Your GP can: 

  • talk to you and your child about what's been happening  

  • assess how they're doing  

  • suggest support that may help  

  • refer your child to NHS mental health services, such as CAMHS, if specialist support is needed. 


If you're worried about your child's safety or feel they are in crisis, seek urgent help straight away. 

Getting support from the GP

Not every child who experiences trauma needs therapy, but some children benefit from specialist support. 
 
If your child is referred for counselling or therapy, it can be helpful to ask whether the professional has experience supporting children who have experienced trauma. Trauma-informed professionals understand how trauma can affect emotions, behaviour, relationships and learning, and adapt their approach accordingly. They aim to create a safe, supportive environment, build trust and work with children and families in ways that recognise the impact of traumatic experiences. 
 
Depending on your child's age, therapy might involve talking, play, creative activities or family work. 

School can play an important role in helping children recover, particularly when staff understand how trauma affects learning, behaviour and relationships. 
 
If your child is struggling, speak to the school about what's happening and what support might help. Depending on your child's age, involve them in deciding what information they feel comfortable sharing. 
 
Schools may be able to offer: 

  • pastoral support  

  • mentoring  

  • access to wellbeing or counselling services  

  • quiet spaces or adjustments during the school day  

  • clubs and activities that help children feel connected  


Some families have positive experiences of support at school, while others may need to spend more time advocating for their child's needs. Remember that you have the right to get support for your child. 

Guide to school anxiety

Other children and young people may benefit from specialist mental health support, particularly if trauma is having a significant impact on their daily life, relationships or wellbeing. 

Depending on your child's needs, specialist support might include: 

  • Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS), which provide assessment and treatment for children and young people experiencing significant mental health difficulties, including PTSD and complex PTSD.  

  • Clinical psychologists, who can assess how trauma is affecting your child and provide evidence-based psychological therapies.  

  • Child and adolescent psychiatrists, who specialise in diagnosing and treating more complex mental health conditions. They may work as part of a CAMHS team alongside psychologists, therapists and mental health nurses.  

  • Family support, where parents, carers and siblings are involved in helping a child recover and develop coping strategies together.  

  • Specialist services, for example services supporting children who have experienced sexual abuse, domestic abuse, exploitation, violence or other specific types of trauma.  

Many of these professionals work together as part of the same team, so the support your child receives will depend on their individual needs and circumstances. 
 
To access specialist support, your child may be referred by a GP, school, paediatrician or another healthcare professional, depending on the services available in your area. 

Therapy and counselling... it is just invaluable.
Parent

Useful helplines and websites

While we take care to ensure that the organisations we signpost to provide high quality information and advice, we cannot take responsibility for any specific pieces of advice they may offer. We encourage parents and carers to always explore the website of a linked service or organisation to understand who they are and what support they offer before engaging with them.

  • YoungMinds Parents Helpline

    We support parents and carers who are concerned about their child or young person's mental health. We can provide detailed information and advice, emotional support and signposting.

    You can speak to us over the phone or chat to us online. When we’re closed, you can still leave us a message and we'll get back to you in 3-5 working days.

    Opening times:
    9.30am-4pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays; 9.30am-6pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
    Parents Helpline

  • Youth Access

    Provides information about local counselling and advice services for young people aged 11-25.

    Put in your location and what you need help with into their 'Find help' search, and see what services are available in your area.

    Youth Access

  • Hub of Hope

    A national database of mental health charities and organisations across Britain that offer mental health advice, including for family members.

    Hub of Hope

  • Bayo

    Bayo has a list of organisations that work specifically with Black young people, including places where Black young people can get mental health support in their local community.

    Bayo

  • Black Minds Matter

    Connects Black individuals and families with free professional mental health services across the UK.

    You can get in touch here.

    Black Minds Matter

  • Grief Encounter

    Supports children and young people through bereavement.

    Free webchat service available.

    Opening times:
    9am - 9pm, Monday - Friday
    Grief Encounter
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This page was reviewed in July 2026.

It was created with parents and carers with lived experience of supporting their child or young person with trauma.

We will next review the page in 2029.

YoungMinds is a proud member of PIF TICK – the UK's quality mark for trusted health information.

Whether you love the page or think something is missing, we appreciate your feedback. It all helps us to support more young people with their mental health.

Please be aware that this form isn’t a mental health support service. If you are in crisis right now and want to talk to someone urgently, find out who to contact on our urgent help page.

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This form is not a mental health support service. We cannot reply to this. If you or your child are at immediate risk of harm, call 999 and ask for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E. If you are worried about your child’s mental health, call our Parents Helpline on 0808 802 5544, from 9.30am - 4pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays and from 9.30am - 6pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If you are struggling with your own mental health, call Samaritans on 116 123.

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