How to Help a Traumatized Teen

Physical or mental trauma can devastate a teenager's life and have negative impacts that can extend well into his adult life. A teen needs a strong role model to get through a traumatic phase in his life. Recovery may take time, but consistent support ultimately helps a teenager work through a trauma.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Seek counseling. Accompany the teenager to the therapy sessions. Participate in the meeting or wait outside based on the teen's wishes. Consider arranging a meeting with other trauma survivors to motivate the teen.

2. Help the teenager deal with his emotions. Encourage him to convey any repressed feelings. Pay attention and help him cope with the recurring thoughts of the trauma. Let him know that he is not alone.

3. Be available to assist the teen in every way possible even if he initially rejects your support. Be there to guide him through his moods of depression and do not let him turn to drugs and alcohol to escape his past.

4. Spend quality time with the teenager. Watch a movie, take a walk or sit down to talk about his interests and future goals.

5. Engage in fun activities with the traumatized teenager. Take part in indoor/outdoor sports to build his interest in extra curricular activities. Encourage him to mingle with people of his age group and become socially active.

6. Remain calm if the traumatized teenager exhibits aggressive and self destructive behavior. Do not lecture him. Be placid and use convincing arguments to help him get through the phase and move on.