GATEWAY PTSD & C-PTSD in children and young adults

Any trauma has the potential to cause Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), and it can affect anyone – regardless of age.

PTSD and C-PTSD can develop when someone experiences or witnesses something they perceive as life-threatening, extremely unsafe, or overwhelmingly frightening, leading to feelings of fear, helplessness, or horror. However, it’s important to understand that PTSD & C-PTSD often presents differently in children than in adults. While adults may be more able to express how they feel or describe what they’re experiencing, children often struggle to put their emotions into words.

That’s why it’s crucial for parents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone working with children to understand what PTSD and C-PTSD are, what kinds of experiences can trigger them, the signs to look out for, and the types of support and treatments that can help young people heal.

Understanding PTSD & C-PTSD in children and young adults

Find out how PTSD and C-PTSD can affect children and young people – and how the right support can make all the difference in their recovery.

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Causes of PTSD & C-PTSD in children and young adults

Discover the types of experiences that can lead to PTSD and C-PTSD in children and young people – and why early recognition is so important.

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Symptoms of PTSD & C-PTSD in children and young adults

Learn how PTSD and C-PTSD can show up in children and young people – from emotional changes to behaviour and physical symptoms.

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Treatments for PTSD & C-PTSD in children and young adults

Explore the treatments that can help children and young people recover from PTSD and C-PTSD – and how early support can lead to lasting healing.

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How can I help my child with PTSD or C-PTSD?

Find out how to support your child through PTSD or C-PTSD – with practical steps, understanding, and hope for their recovery.

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Complex PTSD in children and young adults

Understand Complex PTSD in children and young people – what it is, how it develops, and the support that can help them feel safe and start to heal.

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I'm a young adult with PTSD or C-PTSD

If you're a young adult living with PTSD or C-PTSD, you're not alone – find support, information, and hope to help you understand what you're going through and take steps towards healing.

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PTSD & C-PTSD in children: Information for teachers

Learn how to recognise and support children with PTSD or C-PTSD in the classroom – practical guidance for teachers to help create a safe, understanding learning environment.

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Insights: The PTSD UK Blog

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March 1, 2025

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