At Evolve Treatment, we know that trauma isn’t just something that happens to other people—it’s something that can touch any of us, particularly teens who are still figuring out how to navigate the world. World Trauma Day is on October 17th each year, and it marks a time to raise awareness about the impact of trauma on people’s lives, especially young people. Let’s talk about what trauma is, how it affects teens, and what we can do to help.
What is Trauma?
Trauma is a broad term that covers a lot of ground. It can result from a single event, like a car accident or the sudden loss of a loved one, or from ongoing experiences, such as bullying, abuse, or living in a home where there’s domestic violence. Trauma isn’t just about what happens—it’s about how a person experiences what happens.
For teens, trauma can be particularly tough. They’re at a stage where they’re still developing emotionally and mentally, so when something traumatic happens, it can have a significant impact on their sense of safety, self-worth, and even their ability to trust others.
How Trauma Affects Teens
Trauma can affect teens in a variety of ways, and it doesn’t always look the same for everyone. Some common signs that a teen might be struggling with trauma include:
- Emotional Changes: A teen might become more withdrawn, anxious, or depressed. They might also have mood swings or seem more irritable than usual.
- Behavioral Changes: Trauma can lead to changes in behavior, like acting out, avoiding certain places or people, or engaging in risky behaviors.
- Physical Symptoms: It’s not uncommon for trauma to show up in physical ways, such as headaches, stomach aches, or trouble sleeping.
- Difficulty with Relationships: Trauma can make it hard for teens to form or maintain healthy relationships. They might push people away, struggle with trust, or feel disconnected from those around them.
At Evolve Treatment, we recognize these signs and understand the deep impact trauma can have on a teen’s life. We believe in addressing these issues head-on, providing a safe and supportive environment where teens can begin to heal.
How Evolve Treatment Helps Teens Heal from Trauma
Healing from trauma isn’t a one-size-fits-all process—it’s a journey that looks different for everyone. Evolve is a clinician-led organization, and our team of experts create individualized treatment plans that deploy a variety of therapies to bring your teen and family to a place where you can thrive together. We use an evidence-based and behavioral approach to treatment that includes psychiatry, a significant focus on DBT skills training, and other therapeutic methods based on the individual needs of your teen. We offer:
Psychiatry: At Evolve, our psychiatry team works closely with teens to provide tailored diagnoses and medication management, ensuring their mental health needs are met with the utmost care and expertise.
Individual Therapy: Evolve’s individual therapy sessions offer teens a safe and confidential space to explore their thoughts and emotions, helping them navigate challenges and achieve meaningful personal growth.
Family Therapy: Evolve’s family therapy sessions strengthen family bonds by addressing underlying issues, improving communication, and fostering a supportive home environment crucial for a teen’s recovery.
Group Therapy: In group therapy, teens connect with peers who understand their struggles, sharing experiences and building resilience together in a nurturing, peer-supported setting.
DBT Skills Training: We integrate DBT skills training to equip teens with practical tools for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and reducing self-destructive behaviors, helping them build a foundation for lasting recovery.
Experiential Therapy: Evolve’s experiential therapy engages teens in activities like Drama Therapy, Surfing, Equine-Assisted Therapy, and Art Therapy, allowing them to process emotions and experiences in dynamic, hands-on ways that complement traditional talk therapy.
Education: Evolve empowers teens with education about mental health and life skills, giving them the knowledge and tools to make informed choices and take control of their journey toward well-being.
Aftercare Planning: Evolve’s aftercare planning ensures that each teen leaves treatment with a personalized roadmap for ongoing support and relapse prevention, setting them up for continued success and stability in their lives.
Taking the Next Step
If you or someone you care about is struggling with the effects of trauma, World Trauma Day is a reminder that help is available. At Evolve Treatment, we’re here to provide the support and care needed to start the healing process. Don’t wait—reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help teens navigate their trauma and move toward a brighter, healthier future.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Evolve Treatment to find out how we can support your teen on their journey to healing from trauma. We’re here to help every step of the way.
