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PTSD symptoms in teens in Maryland and when to seek care

  • Writer: Scarlet Plus LLC
    Scarlet Plus LLC
  • Nov 4
  • 6 min read
Pensive african american soldier in military uniform sitting on couch suffering from PTSD
A soldier in military uniform sits pensively on a couch, reflecting on the challenges of PTSD.

Many families wonder what PTSD symptoms in teens look like and when it is time to get help. PTSD stands for post traumatic stress disorder. It can follow a scary or painful event. This guide explains common signs in teens, how to tell normal stress from PTSD, and what to do next in Maryland and Washington DC. It uses simple language so you can act with confidence.


Page Contents:

What PTSD looks like in teens

PTSD affects the way a teen thinks, feels, and behaves. Symptoms are grouped into four areas. Teens may have some or all of these. The pattern and intensity can change over time.


Re experiencing symptoms

  1. Flashbacks that feel like the event is happening again

  2. Bad dreams or frequent nightmares

  3. Upsetting memories that pop in without warning

  4. Strong feelings or body reactions when something reminds them of the event


You can learn more about these symptoms in the child and teen section from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute of Mental Health. (CDC)


Avoidance symptoms

  1. Avoiding places people or activities that bring up reminders

  2. Pushing away thoughts or feelings about what happened

  3. Skipping school activities social events or favorite hobbies


These signs often appear when the teen is working hard to not think about the trauma. The CDC explains how avoidance can limit daily life for children and teens. (CDC)


Arousal and reactivity symptoms

  1. Always on guard or easily startled

  2. Trouble sleeping or staying asleep

  3. Irritability anger or outbursts

  4. Problems with focus and school work

  5. Risky or reckless behavior


NIMH notes that these arousal symptoms are often constant and can affect sleep eating and concentration. (nimh.nih.gov)


Mood and thinking changes

  1. Feeling numb or lacking positive emotions

  2. Ongoing fear sadness or low mood

  3. Negative beliefs about self others or the world

  4. Pulling away from friends and family

  5. Acting helpless or withdrawn

  6. Physical complaints like headaches or stomach pain without a clear cause


CDC and child trauma experts describe these changes as common after trauma in youth. (CDC)


What is normal stress and what is PTSD

Many teens feel stress right after a scary event. They may have trouble sleeping or feel jumpy. For most teens these reactions fade with time and support. PTSD is different. PTSD is when symptoms last longer than one month and get in the way of school friends or family life. When long term symptoms disrupt daily life it is time to speak with a health care provider. (CDC)


Red flags that mean you should seek care now in Maryland

Call for urgent help if any of these show up

  1. Thoughts of self harm or suicide

  2. Plans to hurt self or others

  3. Loss of touch with reality

  4. Very strong panic that will not settle

  5. Aggression or unsafe behavior

  6. Substance use that is new or getting worse


If you need urgent support call or text 988. The 988 Lifeline connects you to trained counselors any time day or night. In Maryland you can also find details on the state 988 page. Teens and families can use the Maryland Youth Crisis Hotline at 800 422 0009. If there is immediate danger call 911. (samhsa.gov)


Common causes of trauma in teens

Trauma can come from many sources. Examples include

  1. Violence abuse or neglect

  2. Bullying or community violence

  3. Serious accidents or injuries

  4. Sexual assault

  5. Natural disasters

  6. The sudden loss of a loved one

  7. Household stress such as substance use or mental illness in the family


Public health experts describe these as adverse childhood experiences. These experiences can raise the risk of PTSD and other health problems later on. (CDC)


How PTSD is diagnosed for teens

A qualified mental health professional meets with the teen and family. They review the event history and current symptoms. They ask about sleep mood school and relationships. They also look for other concerns like depression anxiety or substance use. A diagnosis is based on the pattern and duration of symptoms and how much they affect daily life. If symptoms are new or mild a provider may suggest watchful waiting and support. If symptoms last longer than one month or limit function they may diagnose PTSD and suggest treatment. NIMH outlines this process and why early care helps. (nimh.nih.gov)


Evidence based treatments that help teens heal

Treatment for PTSD works. The goal is to reduce distress build coping skills and help the brain and body feel safe again. Two therapies have strong evidence for teens.

  1. Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapyThis therapy teaches skills to manage anxiety and mood. It helps the teen face reminders in safe steps and reframe unhelpful thoughts. A caregiver is involved to support progress and improve family communication. Research and national networks show strong results for children and teens. (nctsn.org)

  2. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessingThis therapy uses structured sets of eye movements or other bilateral stimulation while recalling parts of the memory. The goal is to reduce the emotional charge and build new beliefs about safety and control. Recent reviews find it can reduce PTSD symptoms in youth. (MDPI)


Other supports can also help

  1. Skills based therapies for sleep relaxation and stress

  2. Family therapy to improve routines and support

  3. School supports and academic accommodations

  4. Medication when needed and always under medical supervision


Medication is not the first line for most teens with PTSD. When used it is often to treat related depression anxiety or sleep problems. Talk with a prescriber who understands teen mental health. The main approach is therapy first with medication only when benefits are likely to outweigh risks. NIMH and clinical reviews support this plan. (Mayo Clinic)


How families can support a teen at home

Small steps add up. Try these ideas

  1. Keep a simple daily routine for sleep school and meals

  2. Help your teen practice calm breathing muscle relaxation or grounding

  3. Limit news and social media that replay the event

  4. Encourage gentle movement like walking yoga or sports if cleared by a doctor

  5. Offer choices during the day to rebuild a sense of control

  6. Praise effort not only results

  7. Stay connected with teachers and coaches

  8. Keep open honest talk and listen without judgment

  9. Seek your own support so you can support your teen


If symptoms persist or get worse reach out for care. Early treatment helps recovery and builds resilience. NIMH explains that most people improve with time and the right help. (nimh.nih.gov)


Care in Maryland and Washington DC with Forbs Behavioral Health Services

You do not have to navigate this alone. Forbs Behavioral Health Services offers in person care in Frederick Maryland and telehealth across Maryland and Washington DC. Our clinicians use evidence based care for trauma including trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR when appropriate. We also offer psychiatric evaluation and medication management when needed. Learn more on our Trauma and PTSD page and request a visit today. Trauma and PTSD treatment at Forbs Behavioral Health Services


When to seek care for PTSD symptoms in teens

Seek an evaluation when

  1. Symptoms last longer than one month

  2. School grades or attendance drop

  3. Sleep appetite or energy change in a big way

  4. Friends or activities no longer bring any joy

  5. Your teen uses alcohol or drugs to cope

  6. You as a parent feel worried most days


If any urgent red flags appear use 988 or 911 right away. Then schedule follow up care so your teen can get back on track. (CDC)


Next steps

  1. Call or request an appointment with Forbs Behavioral Health Services in Frederick or by telehealth across Maryland and Washington DC

  2. Share this guide with your teen and discuss which signs they notice

  3. Talk with school staff about simple supports

  4. Save these numbers in your phone988 for urgent mental health supportMaryland Youth Crisis Hotline 800 422 0009

  5. Begin care and stick with it. Most teens improve with steady support and proven therapy. (samhsa.gov)

Sources

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention PTSD in children overview and symptoms. (CDC)

  • National Institute of Mental Health PTSD signs symptoms and arousal features. (nimh.nih.gov)

  • National Child Traumatic Stress Network information on trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy for youth. (nctsn.org)

  • Maryland Department of Health 988 information and Maryland Youth Crisis Hotline resource. (Maryland.gov Enterprise Agency Template)

  • SAMHSA 988 partner and education materials for public use. (samhsa.gov)

  • Peer reviewed and clinical references on youth PTSD treatments including EMDR and TF CBT. (MDPI)

Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health in Maryland & D.C.

Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health in Maryland & D.C.

At Forbs Behavioral Health Services, LLC, we provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for children, teens, adults, and seniors. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, our licensed providers are here to help — both in-person in Frederick, MD and via telehealth across Maryland and Washington, D.C. From psychiatric evaluations and medication management to individual therapy, we’re committed to delivering personalized care that fits your life.

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Now accepting new patients — schedule your appointment today and start your path to healing.

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