Articles on PTSD

By Dr. Lynn Margolies

Back to Trauma

PTSDTeenage SuicideTrauma

Coping With Trauma & Avoiding Misconceptions

Most of us function by maintaining an illusion of control over life with only dim awareness of possible catastrophe. A basic sense of security runs in the background of our psyche – like a computer operating system – imperceptible until it crashes. When our security is ripped away by trauma, we’re shocked and catapulted into a different reality. Suddenly the threat of danger and loss looms large, making us acutely aware that life is fragile.
Author Profile Picture
Dr. Lynn Margolies
Approaching Difficult TopicsGetting Teens to Talk (and Listen)Parenting ChallengesRisk, Danger, & Self-Destructive BehaviorTeens & Young AdultsUnderstanding the Teenage MindsetPTSDTeenage SuicideTraumaFamily IssuesShame, Guilt, & Compulsive Behaviors

How Parents & Teachers Can Help Prevent Suicide in Teens

Although we don’t usually think of suicide as contagious, one of the strongest predictors of suicide in youth is the suicide or suicide attempt of a friend or family member.
Author Profile Picture
Dr. Lynn Margolies
Approaching Difficult TopicsGetting Teens to Talk (and Listen)Parenting ChallengesRisk, Danger, & Self-Destructive BehaviorTeens & Young AdultsUnderstanding the Teenage MindsetPTSDTeenage SuicideTraumaFamily Issues

Preventing the Spread of Suicide in Teens

Teens don’t feel safe talking to adults about suicide. Some suicidal teens may be good actors – showing us what we want to see. Learn how to make it safe for your teen to talk to you and trust you, and what not to do. This article offers practical advice about how to recognize vulneralbe teens, the warning signs that they may be at risk, and how to help.
Author Profile Picture
Dr. Lynn Margolies
Childhood TraumaPTSDTeenage SuicideTraumaPsychology NewsTrauma

The Long-Term Impact of Childhood Maltreatment

This blog discusses recent findings on the long-term effects of childhood emotional neglect and abuse. Other topics: how binge drinking in adolescents affects gene expression in adulthood, and recent finding on marijuana use in people with bipolar disorder.
Author Profile Picture
Dr. Lynn Margolies
TraumaChildhood TraumaPTSDUnlocking PotentialPsychology NewsGood News

The Surprising Power of Support: Research on How Love and Support Impacts Trauma Recovery and Buffers Pain

This blog discusses interesting new research on the positive biological effects of love and support.
Author Profile Picture
Dr. Lynn Margolies
Childhood TraumaPTSDTrauma

Understanding the Effects of Trauma: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Many people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder fail to seek treatment because of not having correctly identified or recognized their symptoms as trauma-related, and/or not knowing their symptoms are treatable. Also, the inherent avoidance, withdrawal, memory disruption, fear, guilt, shame, and mistrust associated with PTSD, can make it difficult to come forward and seek help. The process of integration allows the trauma to become a part of normal memory rather than something to be perpetually feared and avoided, interfering with normal life, and frozen in time.
Author Profile Picture
Dr. Lynn Margolies