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Most people know the definition of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as it has become an unfortunate, common after-effect of war, terrorism and assault.  What many people don’t know is that PTSD can occur in people who have had significant, complex medical issues. This is the case with my daughter Riley.  I wanted to share our experiences, because I believe that it’s crucial to understand trauma from a child’s perspective, and to increase awareness of the connection between trauma and children with complex medical issues.    

No one wants the words “post-traumatic stress disorder” and “children” to appear in the same sentence. But recent events like the Sandy Hook elementary school shooting are reminders that children as well as adults can be exposed to events that cause this debilitating but highly treatable mental illness. Previous posts in this series explained why I advocate for children with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), explored 5 myths and misconceptions about PTSD in children, and defined both trauma and PTSD from a child’s point of view.

Shortly after my daughter Campbell’s first medical emergency, I noticed that I was much more agitated, anxious and always on alert.  This caused me to suffer from insomnia, panic attacks and depression.  I began talking with other parents and did my own research, finding I was not alone.  

WASHINGTON — Montana's program to aggressively screen combat veterans for signs of mental trauma is going national.

President Barack Obama signed a Department of Defense authorization bill Wednesday, which among other provisions extends the Treasure State's program by requiring all military personnel to get face-to-face screenings before they leave for combat and periodically after they return to see if there are signs of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or other mental illnesses.

Click here to register for this event What Mark your calendars for Friday, November 18 and plan to attend the 2011 Prematurity Summit! This educational conference will feature sessions on Post Partum Depression and PTSD relating to premature birth, a parent panel on the effects of prematurity, and the importance of waiting until 39 weeks completed gestation for delivery. This conference will provide a luncheon, light snack and materials, and CEU’s will be available! Seating is limited, so make sure to reserve your spot early! When: Friday, November 18, 2011 11:00am - 5:00pm Where: Crowne Plaza Hotel 3rd Floor, Ballroom C 27 North 27th Street Billings, Montana