How We Deal With Trauma



Possible Reactions to a Disaster or Traumatic Event

With the recent school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, many people are asking how the kids at the school will react to experiencing such a traumatic event.

Many of the reactions noted below are normal when children and youth are handling the stress right after an event. If any of these behaviors lasts for more than 2 to 4 weeks, or if they suddenly appear later on, these children may need more help coping. Information about where to find help is in the Helpful Resources section of this tip sheet.

 

Youth and Adolescents, 11–19 years old: go through a lot of physical and emotional changes because of their developmental stage. So, it may be even harder for them to cope with trauma. Older teens may deny their reactions to themselves and their caregivers. They may respond with a routine “I’m ok” or even silence when they are upset. Or, they may complain about physical aches or pains because they cannot identify what is really bothering them emotionally. Some may start arguments at home and/or at school, resisting any structure or authority. They also may engage in risky behaviors such as using alcohol or drugs.

 

If you or someone you know has experienced a traumatic event, some of the following resources may be helpful!

 

Helpful Resources

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Technical Assistance Center (SAMHSA DTAC)

Toll Free: 1-800-308-3515

Web Site: http://www.samhsa.gov/dtac

Treatment Locators

Mental Health Services Locator

Toll-Free: 1–800–789–2647 (English and Español); TDD: 1–866–889–2647

Web Site: http://store.samhsa.gov/mhlocator

Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator

Toll-Free: 1–800–662–HELP (1–800–662–4357) (24/7 English and Español); TDD: 1–866–487–4889

Web Site: http://www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov

Hotlines

Disaster Distress Helpline

Toll-Free: 1-800-985-5990 Text ‘TalkWithUs’ to 66746

Web Site: http://www.disasterdistress.samhsa.gov

Child Welfare Information Gateway

Toll-Free: 1–800–4–A–CHILD (1–800–422–4453)

Web Site: http://www.childwelfare.gov/responding/how.cfm

Resources Addressing Children’s Needs

Administration for Children and Families

Web Site: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/