After exposure to trauma, such as violence, death, accidents, or natural disasters, children are likely to show signs of stress. These reactions are normal and usually will not last long. Whether a child was involved directly, through proximity, through a parent's involvement, or as a second-hand witness via the media, friends or family, they are likely to exhibit some of the following symptoms.

Indicators of Emotional Overload in Children

- Regression: returning to earlier behaviors that had been outgrown.
- Nightmares and night terrors.
- Clinging to parents, fear of strangers.
- Outbursts and tantrums; irritability.
- "Fragile" feelings: hurt easily, quicker than usual to cry.
- Nervous behavior, worry.
- Withdrawal and isolation.
- Suppression of emotion.
- Physical complaints: headaches, stomach aches.
- Changes in eating or sleeping behavior.
- Bedwetting or thumbsucking.
- Excessive fear of darkness, separation or being alone.