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Children who experience a physical or emotional trauma, such as witnessing a shooting, surviving physical or sexual abuse, or being in a car accident, may develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Children are more easily traumatized than adults: An event that may not be traumatic to an adult might be to a child, such as a turbulent plane ride.

A child with traumatic stress disorder will experience symptoms of general anxiety, including trouble sleeping and eating or being irritable. Many children may exhibit other physical symptoms as well, such as being easily startled.

Effective treatment for anxiety disorders may include some form of psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or medications. Children who exhibit persistent symptoms of an anxiety disorder should be referred to and evaluated by a mental health professional who specializes in treating children. The evaluation may include psychological testing and consultation with other specialists. A comprehensive treatment plan should be developed with the family, and whenever possible, the child should be involved in making treatment decisions.