Acute - Children 0-6 years

In the first month after traumatic events, it’s very common for young children to have bad memories and to avoid things that remind them of the event (e.g. places, people, etc.). Children can also become anxious (e.g. about being separated from the parents), be nervous, or have problems concentrating.

Such reactions are perfectly normal in the first few weeks and are no cause for concern.

If you’re concerned about your child’s well-being and if you don’t know if to consult a mental health care professional is advisable, fill out the Trauma-Check (not before at least 5 days have passed since the traumatic event). By filling out a few questions, the Trauma-Check screens whether professional help is recommended.

In case your child shows specific symptoms, you get tips on how to help your child to cope with them.

 

Information and Tips

Every child reacts differently after being exposed to traumatic events. Common symptoms after a traumatic event fall into five categories: Bad memories/nightmares, Anxiety, Nervousness, Feelings of depersonalization/derealization, and Other symptoms. In addition, traumatic events occurred to children and adolescents can cause feelings of guilt in their parents.

Find out more about these symptoms and how you can support your child to cope with them by clicking the corresponding buttons.

 

Specialist Contacts

If you are concerned as a parent or if the Trauma-Check resulted in a recommendation to seek professional advice, you can use the KidTrauma function Specialist Contacts (website or mobile-app) to search for mental health care experts in the field of child and adolescent psychotraumatolgy in your area.

 

Downloads/Links

Here you can download helpful brochures and find links to further information.