Children often encounter traumatic life events. Events that may seem trivial to an adult can have a devastating effect on a child, and toddlers to teenagers react to such events differently than adults. Parents usually know their children better than anyone, and that puts them in a unique position to spot warning signs that a child may need professional help.

Events That Can Be Traumatic

Parents can learn how to tell the difference between normal childhood behavior and behavior that suggests a disturbance. If a life-changing event takes place, most parents are able to spot signs that their child is not coping. Less obvious events, events that are usually not seen as traumatic, are harder to identify. Consider some of the most common events that trigger problems.

• Birth or adoption of a new sibling
• Death of a loved one or pet
• Sexual abuse
• Absent or departing parent
• Emotional abuse
• Custody issues
• Physical abuse
• Serious illness
• Bullying
• Moving
• Divorce or separation
• Vehicular accident

Signs a Child may Need Professional Therapy

While a variety of events may adversely affect the child, the warning signs of a child in trouble are often the same.

The more blatant signs of abnormal behavior are easier to spot, but subtle changes in behavior signaling trouble are sometimes barely noticeable. Because parents are often accustomed to the normal behavior of their children, it is easier for them to notice signs of distress.