Did you know June is also PTSD Awareness Month? PTSD, or posttraumatic stress disorder, is a mental health disorder that can be developed after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event such as a natural disaster, car accident, being a victim or witness to violence, or death of a close family member or friend. Research has shown that children who have already experienced at least one traumatic event, 3% to 15% of young females and 1% to 6% of young males develop PTSD.
By practicing mindfulness, we are focusing on our feelings, thoughts, and sensations which can help us cope with very stressful situations. Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness can help reduce symptoms of PTSD including avoidance and hyperarousal. There are two important components to practicing mindfulness:
- Being present in the moment and paying attention to yourself and your surroundings
- Be accepting or willing to accept of your own thoughts and feelings without any judgement.
18 Mindfulness Games, Worksheets, and Activities for Kids – https://positivepsychology.com/mindfulness-for-kids/
Help Raise PTSD Awareness – https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/awareness/index.asp
PTSD in Children – https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/ptsd.html
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