Mental health sequelae of violent injury in children: a review

In the last decade, increasing attention has been paid to the magnitude and characterization of the relationship between violent injury and mental health, with trauma centers progressively focusing on screening and intervention strategies. This review aims to characterize the mental health sequelae of violent injury on children, highlighting effective screening and intervention tools. Violent injury compared to non-violent injury incurs a greater risk for poor mental health outcomes. Risk of acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder are among the best characterized, but anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders are also correlated to violent injury in children. Mental health sequelae are pervasive, and have lasting, significant physical and psychosocial consequences. Globally, the impact of mental health sequelae of violent injury is underrecognized and undertreated. Provider awareness, and early and efficacious screening can facilitate tailored intervention strategies.