Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a mental health condition in which you experience some of the symptoms of PTSD, plus additional symptoms such as, dissociation, emotional dysregulation, and self-harm. It emerges from an extended exposure to traumatic events that take place that involve interpersonal relationships marked by abuse, neglect or captivity.
Individuals with C-PTSD may experience a wide range of symptoms that include flashbacks, nightmares and experience a difficulty regulating their emotions. What is unique about C-PTSD is that it has an impact on one’s identity and their sense of self. Prolonged trauma can have a serious impact on one’s understanding of themselves, leading to distorted self-perception, intense feelings of shame and challenges in forming stable and positive self-identities. Dissociation, which is viewed as a coping mechanism to detach from overwhelming experiences is a most common feature. C-PTSD can affect various aspects of life which include relationships, work and daily functioning. While Complex-PTSD can be a chronic condition, individuals may experience significant improvements with the appropriate treatment and support.
Treatment often involves trauma-focused therapy to address the complex nature of the condition, and to also help individuals rebuild their lives with a better sense of resilience and self-awareness. The process of building resilience and coping mechanisms is a significant aspect of recovery, and a supportive social network can play a crucial role. It’s essential for individuals experiencing symptoms of C-PTSD to seek professional help. Mental health and somatic health care professionals can provide a comprehensive assessment and develop a tailored treatment plan to address the specific needs of individuals with C-PTSD.
When seeking treatment for C-PTSD, it’s important to remember, it takes as long as it takes for your nervous system to feel safe again internally and externally. Trauma treatment is not a race, and it’s a multi- prong approach of therapy, physical care, health providers, and community. It sometimes takes time to find the right health care provider for you, and the right person is out there for you.
