A traumatic event is an event that poses a threat to a child’s life or bodily integrity and that is frightening, dangerous, or violent. Even witnessing an event that puts a loved one’s life and physical security at risk can be traumatic. For young children, this is particularly important, as their sense of safety is directly related to the safety of their attachment figures.

Traumatic experiences can trigger strong emotions and physical reactions that can persist for long periods of time after the event. The child may experience terror, helplessness, or fear, as well as physiological reactions such as heart pounding, vomiting, or losing control of bowels or bladder. The intensity of the physical and emotional responses can be overwhelming for children who are not able to protect themselves or have no protection from others to avoid the consequences of the traumatic experience.

Despite the best efforts of adults to keep children safe, accidents still happen. Danger can arise from outside the family (such as a natural disaster, car accident, school shooting, or community violence) or within the family (such as domestic violence, physical, or sexual abuse, or the unexpected death of a loved one).

Emotional and Psychological symptoms of trauma:

• Shock, denial or disbelief
• Anger, irritability, mood swings
• Guilt, shame, self-blame
• Feeling sad or hopeless
• Confusion, difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety
• Withdrawing from others
• Disconnected or numb

Physical symptoms of trauma:

• Insomnia or nightmares
• Being startled easily
• Racing heartbeat
• Ached and pains
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Edginess and agitation
• Muscle tension