Hello, and welcome back to the Parent Doctor Podcast! I'm Dr. Marissa Caudill, your host. Please rate and follow this podcast if you want to hear more about how to support kids optimal wellness and mental health.

In this episode, I delve into the topic of trauma, providing insights and support for parents and caregivers.

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As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and a mom of two, I created this podcast to help parents learn about childhood mental health issues and how to support their children's development to prevent problems like depression and anxiety during their teen years.

Trauma can be a triggering topic, especially for those who have experienced it. Our brains are wired to help us survive, which means traumatic events can create strong, lasting neural connections. While most people recover from trauma over time, a small percentage may develop PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

PTSD affects about one in eleven people in their lifetime, with women being twice as likely to be diagnosed. U.S. Latinos, African Americans, and Native Americans or Alaskan Natives also have higher rates of PTSD.

The DSM-5 criteria for PTSD include exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence. Symptoms must persist for more than a month and include intrusive memories, distressing dreams, flashbacks, avoidance of reminders, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and heightened arousal and reactivity.

Effective treatments for PTSD include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and mindfulness practices. Medications can help manage symptoms but are not a cure.

I also discuss the importance of spirituality and understanding that we are not just our bodies or thoughts. Recognizing this can help separate our true selves from traumatic experiences.

Most people are resilient to trauma, and it is a common part of the human experience. If you're experiencing symptoms of PTSD, seeking help can rewire those faulty brain connections and help you reclaim your true self. Addressing these challenges allows you to live your life fully and share your unique gifts with the world.

RESOURCES:

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_children_teens.asp

Video explaining PTSD: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/appvid/video/index.asp

Top 10 PTSD-related Podcasts: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ptsd_podcasts/

https://www.nctsn.org/resources/all-nctsn-resources

https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/trauma-informed-care/resources-for-families/

https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Resource_Centers/Disaster_Resource_Center/Resources_for_Parents_Disaster.aspx

Join me next Friday for episode 9 about bipolar disorder.

Take care! 💕 Dr. Marissa