How to help a child overcome trauma, Dr Helal explains

In the aftermath of a traumatic disaster or accident, mental health professionals stress the need to address the emotional impact on children and adolescents, even those not directly affected. 

Though psychological distress is a common response to such events, the toll can be especially deep and long-lasting for younger individuals, whose minds are still in critical stages of development, doctors emphasise.

In an interview with The Business Standard, Professor of Child Adolescent and Family Psychiatry Dr Helal Uddin Ahmed details how to help a child overcome trauma.

"It is completely natural for people to experience psychological distress after a disaster or accident. However, since children and adolescents are still developing mentally, the depth and impact of trauma can be more harmful for them," he says, in reference to yesterday's incident of a Bangladesh Air Force fighter jet crashing into the Milestone school premises in Uttara. 

"This psychological shock isn't limited to those directly affected. It also affects children who witness such events through television, social media, or other platforms. The trauma can be both short-term and long-lasting," he said, in the backdrop of the crash which left 31 dead and scores injured.

The doctor explained that during this critical period of mental development, children may exhibit immediate symptoms such as anxiety, panic, lack of concentration, sleep disturbances, or even bedwetting. 

"Many develop a fear of returning to school, commonly known as school phobia." 

In the long run, such traumatic experiences can develop into Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or personality disorders, he said. 

"They may become hyper-vigilant – easily frightened, withdrawn, and emotionally detached."

'Psychological first aid'

Overcoming this trauma requires psychological first aid – not only for those directly impacted, but also for those indirectly affected, Dr Helal explained. 

"It's essential to offer empathy, not pity. Showing pity or excessive sympathy can undermine a child's self-confidence. Instead, we must respect their feelings and stand beside them with understanding and support."

Emphasising the role of parents and teachers as crucial, he said, "When children ask questions, they must be answered truthfully and appropriately, not with false reassurances. 

"If they don't want to study for a day or two, or take time to return to their regular routine, it should be handled with patience and acceptance." 

Forcing them back into school or making insensitive remarks like "Nothing happened to you," or "You study at a different school," should be strictly avoided, he said, adding, such comments increase their anxiety and insecurity.

Dr Helal said it's vital to ensure proper sleep for the child and to discourage staying up late or watching disturbing content on social media. They should be allowed and even encouraged to express grief – suppressing it can worsen their emotional state.

Additionally, children should be taught basic safety and emergency response skills, such as what to do in case of electric shock or how to respond immediately to burns, he added. 

"This knowledge builds awareness and resilience. These lessons should be incorporated into both family and school environments.

"After an accident, it's also important to allow children and adolescents to contribute in some way – whether through prayers for the injured, fundraising, or participating in support initiatives. These actions instill a sense of responsibility and help reduce trauma."

Most importantly, children should never be scolded for expressing grief, Dr Helal noted. 

"If they can take part in something meaningful without being exposed to horrific scenes – such as offering financial help, sending messages of support, or praying for victims – that can help significantly reduce their trauma in the immediate aftermath."