Children and young people who have experienced violence can exhibit distressing feelings and reactions. These can include depression, nightmares, anxiety, irritability, inner turmoil, and 'flashbacks' (involuntary, vivid re-experience of a traumatic event).

These reactions can be a normal physical and mental initial response to an extreme experience. However, in some cases the symptoms do not subside without treatment.

If these symptoms persist, they may lead to serious secondary conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression.

The trauma clinic provides therapeutic support for children and adolescents who have experienced violence. This can include physical or sexual violence.

Even witnessing an act of violence or being threatened during an attack can cause severe psychological distress. The trauma clinic also offers rapid and targeted support in such cases.

• anxiety or constant tension
• withdrawal from family, friends or school
• difficulty concentrating and decline in performance
• sadness or irritability
• sleep disorders and frequent brooding
• physical complaints without a clear cause (e.g. stomach ache or headache)
• play behaviour in which the experience reappears repeatedly
• in adolescents, additional risky behaviour or self-harm

• rapid support after experiencing violence
• alleviation of existing stress symptoms
• activation of resources available to affected children, young people and their environment
• prevention/reduction of long-term psychological consequences
• indication for any necessary psychotherapy

• one-on-one conversation with the affected child or adolescent; if necessary, also with important caregivers
• diagnosis and professional assessment of existing psychological symptoms
• counselling on the possible consequences of traumatic experiences and the risk of trauma-related disorders
• support and guidance for the child or adolescent, their family and other important caregivers
• information and referral to appropriate further assistance and treatment options

The trauma clinic offers support within the framework of SGB XIV – Social Compensation (formerly Victims Compensation Act, OEG). The costs of the initial consultations are covered by the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in all cases.
If further consultations are required, an application for cost coverage will be completed by LAGuS (State Office for Health and Social Services), with our support if desired.