Helping Your Child Weather the Storm: Understanding and Supporting Post-Traumatic Stress After Natural Disasters
Natural disasters are frightening for everyone,but for young children,the experience can be deeply unsettling and even traumatic. It’s not just the event itself, but the disruption to their sense of safety and security that can linger long after the storm has passed. If you’ve recently navigated a natural disaster with your child, you might be noticing changes in their behavior. Your not alone, and understanding how to support them is crucial.
Recognizing the Signs: What Does Trauma Look Like in Young Children?
Children don’t always have the words to express their fear and anxiety. Rather, trauma frequently enough manifests in behavioral changes. Here are some common signs to watch for:
* Regression: Your child might revert to earlier behaviors, like bedwetting, thumb-sucking, or needing help with tasks they previously mastered.
* Emotional Outbursts: Unexplained crying, increased irritability, or sudden mood swings are common.
* Changes in Eating or Sleeping: A loss of appetite or difficulty sleeping – including nightmares – can be indicators of distress.
* increased Clinginess: Your child may become unusually attached to you and resist separation.
* Repetitive Play or Questions: They might repeatedly talk about the event, ask the same questions, or engage in repetitive play themes related to the disaster.
* avoidance: Your child might avoid places, people, or activities that remind them of the traumatic experience.
These reactions are normal responses to an abnormal event. Remember, it’s not about if your child is affected, but how they are affected.
A Mother’s Story: Finding healing Through Play
One mother, Deana Lytle, experienced this firsthand after evacuating with her three-year-old son, Fitz, during a hurricane. She vividly remembers praying for their safety as they drove through the storm. While they arrived safely at her parents’ home, Fitz began exhibiting signs of post-traumatic stress soon after.
He struggled with eating, experienced uncontrollable crying, and frequently wet the bed. Every time it rained, he’d anxiously ask, “Is the storm coming back?” It was heartbreaking to witness his distress.
Deana discovered a therapeutic playgroup in Asheville,called the Verner Center for Resilience,and enrolled fitz. This proved to be a turning point.Through play, Fitz began to process his experience. Initially,he only wanted to draw circular scribbles,even on coloring books featuring his favorite characters.
The Power of play: How Children Process Trauma
play is a child’s language. It’s how they explore their world, make sense of their experiences, and express their emotions. For a child who has experienced trauma, play can be a powerful tool for healing.
Fitz’s scribbles, initially chaotic and uncontrolled, represented his internal turmoil. As he continued to engage in play, his drawings evolved. Eventually, he created a swirl of pink and white putty, proudly declaring, “It’s a tornado, mommy.And I got it in my hand. And it’s OK.”
This simple statement revealed a profound shift. Fitz was regaining a sense of control. He was no longer overwhelmed by the storm; he was holding it, managing it, and ultimately, finding a way to cope.
Supporting Your Child’s Recovery: Practical Steps You Can Take
You can help your child navigate the aftermath of a natural disaster. here’s what you can do:
* create a Safe and Predictable Habitat: Establish routines and provide a consistent, loving presence.
* Validate Their Feelings: Let your child know that their feelings are valid, even if they seem irrational. Say things like, “It’s okay to be scared,” or “It’s understandable that you’re feeling sad.”
* Encourage Expression: Provide opportunities for your child to express their feelings through talking, drawing, playing, or writing.
