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Help for Children and Adolescents
Children sense the anxiety and tension in the adults around
them and can experience the same feelings of helplessness and
lack of control that traumatic events evoke in adults. Unlike
adults, however, children have little experience to help them
place their feelings and problems in perspective. Each child
responds differently to disasters, depending on his or her emotional
maturity and experiences.
It is important to reassure children that they're safe, to discuss
the disaster with them and explore their particular fears and
concerns. Explain that adults will always work very hard to
keep children safe and secure. Do not give false reassurances.
Allow your children to express themselves through play or drawing
and closely monitor their television viewing.
While adolescents may try to down-play their worries, it is
important to encourage your child to talk about their concerns
regarding the disaster. Keep the lines of communication open
and remain honest about the financial, physical and emotional
impact of the disaster on your family. When adolescents are
frightened, they may express their fears through acting out
or regressing to younger habits. Encourage friends and families
to get together and discuss the event to allay their fears.
 Quick Tips
for Parents
- Children need comforting and frequent reassurance that
they're safe.
- Be honest and open about the disaster, but keep information
age-appropriate.
- Encourage children to express their feelings through talking,
drawing or playing.
- Try to maintain your daily routines as much as possible.
- Monitor children's media viewing.
If you would like more information about the effects of trauma
or where you can get help, please contact LifeNet,
1-800-LifeNet (1-800-543-3638)
Additional
web site links
- American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
(aacap.org)
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