Does your child have ADHD? Could it be that a traumatic event (trauma) is the cause?

Is your child restless? Is he always fidgeting? Is he running around? Or is he unable to focus on anything? Is it difficult to focus while studying? The first thing that comes to the mind of many parents when they see these symptoms is, "Oh, my child doesn't even know he has ADHD." However, not all of these symptoms are caused by ADHD ( Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Sometimes, behind this, there is a very deep and traumatic event that has affected the child's mind. That is, it can be a psychological trauma.

What is the connection between ADHD and trauma?

Simply put, childhood trauma, or what we call Childhood Traumatic Stress , is the psychological response of a child to a severe, frightening event that has happened to them or that they have witnessed happen to someone else. Such events, just as they affect adults, can have a profound impact on children's brains, emotions, and behaviors.

The biggest problem here is that the symptoms of ADHD and those of a child with a mental health condition are so similar that sometimes even doctors can have a hard time distinguishing between the two conditions.

Let's look at some common characteristics that can be seen in both of these situations.

Research has found that children diagnosed with ADHD are more likely to experience trauma than children without the condition. Scientists have also found that both ADHD and trauma affect the same areas of our brains: the prefrontal cortex and temporal cortex, which control our emotions, impulses, and decision-making.

What events can cause 'mental trauma' in a child?

There are many events that can have a profound psychological impact on both adults and children. Some of them are obvious to us, while others may be hidden in the child's mind.

• Serious accidents or injuries: Something like a bad fall, a car accident.
• Life-threatening medical conditions: A serious illness that affects the child or a family member.
• Physical or sexual abuse: This is one of the worst traumas a child can experience.
• Witnessing violence: Violent arguments at home, assaults, or violent incidents witnessed outside.
• Neglect or abandonment: Not receiving the necessary love and care from parents. (For example, the child feels lonely and abandoned because the parents have moved abroad).
• Death of a loved one: Losing someone like a mother, father, sibling, or grandparent.
• Natural disasters: Facing things like floods and landslides.
• Divorce or separation of parents.
• Poverty: Mental stress caused by family economic difficulties.

How do you know if this is ADHD or a mental health issue?

Sometimes it's obvious that the child has experienced a traumatic event. For example, if the child has undergone major surgery or been in a car accident, you know about it.

But it's not always that clear. Maybe the child is being bullied by other kids at school, or someone has sexually abused them. Children don't easily talk about these things.

Don't expect your doctor to hear everything and figure it out. Not all doctors ask children about their mental health or household details. That's why your observation and intervention as a parent is very important.

How can you help as a parent?

If your child is suffering from trauma, your love, support, and care are the best medicine they can receive. Here are some things you can do.

Identify the triggers for your child's behavior.

Sometimes, even the most ordinary things can trigger a child's trauma. For example, if a child is watching a violent event on television and then watching it again, they may become upset and start crying. Identify the triggers that upset and distract your child , and try to keep them away from them.

Stay with the child, understand him/her.

Your physical and emotional presence is very important to a depressed child. They may act in a way that alienates others. But be patient . Give them encouragement, comfort, and positive attention.

Stay calm and respect the child.

When your child is upset, don't get angry. Don't yell. Stay calm . Understand his feelings. Comfort him by saying things like, "I understand you're scared," "I'm here for you." Don't make false promises. Never use physical punishment. Instead, set clear boundaries and praise good behavior.

Help the child relax.

Teach your child how to breathe properly. Have him listen to calming music that he likes. Practice saying positive affirmations like "I am safe," "Everyone loves me," several times a day.

Create a consistent routine

Children feel more secure when they know everything in advance. Establish consistent routines for things like mealtimes and bedtime. If you are going to change those routines, tell your child about it in advance.

Give the child some control.

It's important to let your child feel like they have some control over their life. Let them make small, age-appropriate decisions. Let them choose small things like "What are you going to have for dinner tonight?" or "Will you wear a blue dress or a pink dress today?"

It is essential to seek professional help.

Even if you do all of this, if your child's symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, or if they get worse, it's important to seek professional help immediately . For this, see a counselor or psychiatrist who specializes in child mental health. They can refer you to the right treatment for your child, such as behavior therapy or, if necessary , medication . Remember, there's never anything to be ashamed of in a situation like this.

Don't forget, it's very important to take care of yourself too!

It's not easy for parents to take care of a child who is going through such a stressful time. This can take a toll on your mental health. The trauma your child has experienced can affect you as well. We call this secondary trauma . These tips will help you stay strong.

• Make time to do things you enjoy and that bring you joy.
• Don't take your child's bad behavior personally. Understand that it's part of their illness.
• If you see even the slightest improvement in your child's behavior, celebrate it. Praise him.
• Seek support from family, friends, or, if necessary, a mental health professional.

ADHD, Trauma, Child Mental Health, Mental Trauma, Child Behavior, Parenting Advice, Child Mental Health