While anyone of any age can experience a traumatic event and develop a lasting trauma response, children, teens, and adolescents are particularly vulnerable. This is because their brains are still developing, and they may not have the necessary coping mechanisms in place to deal with a traumatic event. As such, parents, teachers, and caregivers must be aware of the importance of coping with trauma.
Imagine Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska, offers comprehensive outpatient mental health services for teens and adolescents aged 12 to 18. We use evidence-based therapies in our programs, including our trauma therapy program, to improve mental health and well-being.
If your child is struggling with trauma, don’t delay. Call 888.306.2681 to speak to our team of mental health experts, ask questions, verify insurance, or get started with treatment today.
What Is Trauma?
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrifying event that leaves an individual feeling overwhelmed, helpless, and frightened. It’s not just about the event itself but how it makes a person feel and impacts their life. For teenagers, trauma can come from various sources.
Common Causes of Trauma in Teens
Teenagers can experience trauma from different situations:
- Emotional abuse – Constant criticism, humiliation, or dismissal of feelings can deeply hurt.
- Physical abuse – Any form of violence can lead to severe traumatic experiences.
- Cyberbullying – The digital world can be a harsh place, leading to traumatic experiences.
- Sexual violence – Any unwanted sexual activity can cause severe trauma.
- Other traumatic events – Accidents, natural disasters, or the sudden loss of a loved one can also cause trauma.
Without professional mental health treatment, the impact of unresolved trauma can be far-reaching and affect an individual for their entire life.
The Impact of Unresolved Trauma
Unresolved trauma can have significant negative effects on a teenager’s life.
In the short term, it can lead to any of the following:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite
In the long term, unresolved trauma can affect academic performance, relationships with friends and family, and overall mental health.
The Importance of Professional Mental Health Treatment
Professional mental health treatment plays a crucial role in addressing trauma. At Imagine Omaha, we offer a range of therapies designed to help manage trauma and improve overall mental health:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – Helps you understand how your thoughts and feelings influence your behaviors.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) – Teaches you how to live in the moment, cope healthily with stress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships with others.
- Group therapy – Allows you to share your experiences and learn from others who are dealing with similar issues.
- Family therapy – Helps improve communication and resolve conflicts within your family.
Many of these therapeutic approaches can be combined with one another or with other approaches, such as medication management.
Imagine Omaha – Helping You Cope with Trauma
At Imagine Omaha, we understand that every teenager’s experience with trauma is unique. That’s why we offer personalized treatment plans that consider your individual needs. Our comprehensive outpatient treatment programs include a partial hospitalization program (PHP) with a step-down to an intensive outpatient program (IOP). In addition, we offer educational advocacy and medication management services.
Don’t let trauma define your child or hamper their potential. Let us help you and your child on a journey of hope and healing. Coping with trauma is possible, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Don’t wait any longer—the importance of coping with trauma cannot be underestimated. Reach out to Imagine Omaha online or call 888.306.2681 today.