You have likely heard of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) but what is Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD)? CPTSD occurs when an individual is exposed to traumatic events or situations over a long period of time. This can include physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse, childhood neglect or abandonment, and/or exposure to violence in the home or other environments.

CPTSD and PTSD are similar. CPTSD results from long-term exposure to trauma, and PTSD is typically thought to stem from short-term exposure to trauma. People with CPTSD and PTSD also have similar symptoms, but those with CPTSD may experience additional symptoms.

What are the symptoms of CPTSD?

The symptoms of CPTSD are varied and at times confused with other disorders. For example anxiety, depression, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). People with CPTSD often spend a lot of time in a fight or flight state, resulting in feelings of panic and anxiety. Exposure to reminders of trauma, which can happen with or without a person’s awareness, can lead to flashbacks and symptoms such as:

• Difficulty regulating emotions;
• Trouble with identity or sense of self;
• Difficulty feeling safe or trusting others, which often leads to relationship issues;
• Feelings of helplessness and shame;
• Flashbacks, which can be visual, emotional, or physical;
• Nausea and other digestive issues;
• Extreme pain without any obvious cause;
• Palpitations and tremors;
• Chronic fatigue;
• Insomnia and sleep disruption;
• Hyper-vigilance, or, “muscle armouring,” which can lead to chronic tension and pain; and,
• Persistent, negative beliefs or expectations about oneself, others, or the world.

How is CPTSD diagnosed and treated?

There are a number of treatments that can help those with CPTSD. Psychotherapy, or a combination of medication and therapy, have shown to be helpful in the treatment of CPTSD. Specifically, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) have helped individuals suffering from CPTSD. Expressive Arts Therapy has also been shown to help restore processes that have been disrupted due to trauma, and can help regulate stress reactions within the body.

Also, participating in healthy relationships can be one of the best ways to let your brain and body know that people can be safe, and yes, your relationship with your therapist counts! Sometimes a therapist may be the first safe person in someone’s life. Experiencing prolonged trauma, such as the kind that can result in the development of CPTSD, can lead you to repeat unhealthy behaviours and make similar choices as you had done previously. By seeking help from a therapist, you can start to recognize what is happening in your mind and body, and begin to break the cycle.

Contact Willow and Sage Counselling today.