This factsheet from the US National Child Traumatic Stress Network provides useful information to parents and caregivers of children who have experienced complex trauma. The factsheet defines complex trauma and describes the signs and symptoms, explaining its effects on children and providing recommendations for how parents and caregivers can help children recover and build resilience.
According to the factsheet, children experience complex trauma when they are exposed to, and impacted by, one or more traumatic events. Parents and caregivers of children who have experienced complex trauma may find it difficult to understand their children’s behaviors and to help them heal from the trauma. This factsheet, therefore, serves as a helpful resource for caregivers as it explains typical behaviors of children with complex trauma and the ways in which caregivers can address these behaviors. For example, the factsheet describes how children may be “triggered” by everyday incidents, sounds, smells, or feelings which cause them to relive a traumatic event and can lead to overreactive behavior, intense anxiety, distraction or lack of focus. Additionally, the factsheet outlines coping strategies and self-care activities for caregivers and parents who can experience feelings of frustration and helplessness in providing care to children with complex trauma.
