Mallory Schulingkamp is a Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor who resides in the New Orleans area. She is coming up on the completion of her 1st year in the counseling profession. Mallory specializes in trauma and has a background in trauma informed play therapy and EMDR.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It goes far beyond everyday stress and includes symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance of trauma reminders, negative shifts in mood or thinking, and heightened alertness or being easily startled. When these symptoms persist for more than a month, PTSD may be diagnosed.
How PTSD Manifests in Adults vs. Children
While the core symptoms are similar, PTSD can look very different depending on a person’s age and developmental stage.
In adults, PTSD often involves vivid, distressing flashbacks, emotional numbness, guilt, shame, irritability, and difficulty maintaining relationships. Many turn to isolation or self-medication with drugs or alcohol, which can lead to further complications.
In children, trauma may show up in less obvious ways. They might not have the language to express what they’re feeling, so re-experiencing trauma can come through repetitive play, drawings, or regressive behaviors like bedwetting or clinginess. They may also report physical symptoms such as stomachaches or headaches without a clear medical cause.
Understanding these differences is crucial so that treatment and support can be age-appropriate and effective.
The Power of Safe Spaces and Open Conversations
Creating a safe, supportive environment with open communication can make a profound difference in the healing journey. One of the most powerful ways to help is by talking openly about PTSD. Whether you’re sharing your own story, checking in on someone, or advocating for better mental health services—every action helps reduce stigma and spread awareness.
Breaking the Stigma Around PTSD
Despite how common PTSD is, it’s often misunderstood. People may be labeled as “overreacting” or “weak,” especially when their trauma isn’t visible. These harmful misconceptions discourage people from seeking the help they need.
By educating ourselves and others, we can replace judgment with empathy, encourage early intervention, and help those affected feel less alone.
Support is Strength
Seeking help for trauma can be overwhelming—but it is never a sign of weakness. It means you’ve carried something heavy for too long and deserve support now. Whether it’s a therapist, counselor, or a trusted friend, there are people who care and want to walk alongside you. You don’t need to have everything figured out to take the first step. You are not broken. What happened to you is not your fault, and it does not define your worth. Healing is possible, and everyone deserves a future that feels safe, hopeful, and whole.
If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, these organizations can offer support:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – http://www.nami.org
- National Center for PTSD – http://www.ptsd.va.gov
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
You are not alone. Healing takes time—but it’s possible. And it starts with reaching out.
Leave a Reply