Trauma seems to be one of those ‘buzzwords’ that are thrown around without thinking. Everything is claimed to be traumatic, from having a teacher call on you in class to having to find a car park. On the other end of the scale, people see trauma as a catastrophic event that will only happen to a few people in their lifetime. The reality is much clearer cut. Trauma is any event that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope. Most people will experience a traumatic event at one time or another – it may be a one-off situation, or an ongoing event.
As a rule, children are fairly resilient, however they are affected by trauma they either witness firsthand, or experience through television and newspapers. Signs that a child is struggling with traumatic stress may include sleep problems, bed wetting, nightmares or by inappropriate behavior and play. They may be anxious or clingy, experience headaches or stomach aches or be unusually aggressive. These are signs that indicate the help of a trained professional is required.
Margaret McDonald has been working with children for the last thirty years. Her experience in schools, community health and in the Family Court has given her the skills required to help children learn how to cope with traumatic experiences. Margaret can also teach parents strategies to help children return to a healthy emotional life.
To schedule an appointment with our Professional Psychologist, please phone the office on 3862 8833.
