Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a well-known condition that can develop after someone experiences a traumatic event. However, there is a lesser-known form of PTSD called Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), which arises from prolonged, repeated trauma. In this blog, we’ll explore what C-PTSD is, how it differs from PTSD, and what symptoms and treatments are available for those affected.
C-PTSD typically occurs when a person is subjected to ongoing trauma over an extended period. This can include experiences like childhood abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual), domestic violence, prolonged exposure to war or conflict, and human trafficking or captivity. Unlike PTSD, which is often associated with a single traumatic event, C-PTSD involves multiple traumatic events, often in situations where the person feels trapped and powerless.
How is C-PTSD Different from PTSD?
While both PTSD and C-PTSD share core symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors, there are several additional layers to C-PTSD. Individuals with C-PTSD may experience emotional dysregulation. This includes intense emotions such as anger, sadness, or guilt that can be overwhelming and difficult to control. Feelings of worthlessness, shame, or guilt can be pervasive. Building and maintaining healthy relationships can be challenging due to mistrust and fear of betrayal. C-PTSD may also include dissociation, which is a feeling of detachment from oneself or the world around them, often as a coping mechanism for extreme stress. Many people with C-PTSD feel trapped or believe they cannot change their circumstances.
Symptoms of C-PTSD
The symptoms of C-PTSD overlap with those of PTSD but are often more complex and severe. Key symptoms include:
- Re-experiencing trauma through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts
- Avoidance of situations, people, or places that remind the person of the trauma
- Hyperarousal, including being easily startled, trouble sleeping, or difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty regulating emotions such as intense anger, depression, or anxiety
- Low self-esteem and feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Challenges with relationships, including detachment, mistrust, and fear of abandonment
What Causes C-PTSD?
C-PTSD results from sustained trauma over a long period, often during formative years when an individual may be especially vulnerable. This trauma is often inflicted in situations where escape is difficult, such as abusive relationships, long-term childhood neglect, or living in war zones. A very important distinction between PTSD and C-PTSD is the ongoing nature of the traumatic experience. This prolonged exposure to fear and danger can deeply affect how a person views themselves and interacts with the world.
Treating C-PTSD
The good news is that like PTSD, Complex PTSD can be treated, and many people experience significant improvements through therapy and support. Some of the most common approaches to treatment include:
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
IFS focuses on treating the parts of individuals that directly affect the trauma symptoms they are experiencing.
Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
TF-CBT helps individuals process and reframe traumatic experiences in healthier ways.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR helps to desensitize and reprocess traumatic memories, reducing the distress they cause.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Often used for emotional dysregulation, DBT teaches coping skills to manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal relationships.
Medication
In some cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
Treat C-PTSD in Alabama
C-PTSD can be incredibly isolating, as survivors may struggle to connect with others or feel misunderstood. Having a strong support system is vital to recovery. Support groups, PTSD therapy, and understanding loved ones can make a world of difference for those navigating the challenges of C-PTSD.
While Complex PTSD is a deeply challenging condition, with the right treatment and support, individuals can heal and regain control of their lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with the symptoms of C-PTSD, seeking help from a mental health professional is an essential first step. All BATT therapists specialize in the treatment of C-PTSD and PTSD, and are waiting to help.
