Children who watch terror attacks unfold on social media could suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, London’s The Telegraph is reporting.
The National Health Service (NHS) in England is cautioning doctors and parents to keep a watchful eye on patients and children because of the recent wave of terror attacks and traumatic events that swept across the country—starting with the Manchester bombing at an Ariana Grande concert six weeks ago.
It isn’t only terror attacks, either, as the horrific fire that destroyed the Grenfell Tower left at least 80 dead.
Dr. Sandeep Ranote, from the Royal College of Psychiatrists, reportedly told The Telegraph: “Children will inevitably learn about incidents through news and social media so it is best to be open with them. However, we would not encourage reliving the experience in the immediate aftermath by repeated exposure to news and images.”
Children experiencing PTSD may have the following symptoms: flashbacks, agitation, nightmares, palpitations and breathing difficulties. They also may have lowered self-esteem, self-blame, and less trust in other people.
“Children and young people experiencing symptoms which may indicate PTSD might think differently about themselves or other people,” the letter warns.
This article was featured in the InsideHook newsletter. Sign up now.
