Healing from Complex PTSD

By /

What is Complex PTSD?

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing chronic or repeated trauma, such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence, and childhood trauma. It is closely related to traditional post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but has additional symptoms, such as difficulties with emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and self-concept.

soldier seated with his head in his hands, dealing with PTSD

C-PTSD is not currently recognized as a separate diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but it is included in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as a subtype of PTSD.

The symptoms of C-PTSD can be severe and long-lasting, and can affect all areas of life, including work, relationships, and daily functioning. They can include:

  • Intrusive thoughts and memories
  • Nightmares and flashbacks
  • Avoidance of triggers and reminders of the traumatic event
  • Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response
  • Emotional dysregulation, including mood swings, anger, and guilt
  • Dissociation and depersonalization
  • Negative self-concept and low self-esteem
  • Impaired interpersonal relationships and trust issues

It is important to seek professional help if you suspect you may be experiencing C-PTSD. A trained mental health professional can help you understand your symptoms, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing from complex PTSD.

What are the Symptoms and Criteria of Complex PTSD?

Recognizing the symptoms of Complex PTSD (CPTSD) can be challenging, as they can vary from person to person and may overlap with other mental health conditions. However, there are some common symptoms and criteria that can help identify CPTSD.

Symptoms of complex trauma can be categorized into four main clusters:

  • Re-experiencing symptoms, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts or memories of the traumatic event.
  • Avoidance symptoms, such as avoiding people, places, or activities that may trigger memories of the trauma.
  • Hyperarousal symptoms, such as feeling jumpy, easily startled, or constantly on edge.
  • Negative self-concept symptoms, such as feeling ashamed, guilty, or worthless.

In addition to these clusters, individuals with CPTSD may also experience difficulty with relationships, somatic symptoms, dissociation, detachment, and shame.

The criteria for CPTSD include experiencing chronic (long-term) trauma, which can result in a sense of helplessness, betrayal, or abandonment. Individuals with CPTSD may also have negative self-perception, difficulty regulating emotions, and impaired self-awareness.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of CPTSD, it is essential to seek help from a mental health professional. There are various treatment options available, including therapy, medication, and self-help strategies, that can help manage symptoms and promote healing.

What is the Psychological and Neurological Impact of Complex PTSD?

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is a severe mental disorder that can have a profound impact on your brain, body, thoughts, emotions, consciousness, self-perception, amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, nervous system, and integration. The psychological and neurological impact of C-PTSD can manifest in various ways, including:

  • Brain: C-PTSD can cause changes in the brain’s structure and function, affecting areas such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. These changes can lead to difficulties in emotion regulation, memory processing, and decision-making.
  • Body: C-PTSD can also have physical effects on the body, such as chronic pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems. These symptoms can be related to the body’s stress response system being activated for prolonged periods.
  • Thoughts: C-PTSD can lead to negative and distorted thoughts about yourself, others, and the world. These thoughts can be difficult to change and can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
  • Emotions: C-PTSD can cause intense and overwhelming emotions, such as fear, anger, and shame. These emotions can be triggered by reminders of past traumas and can interfere with daily functioning.
  • Consciousness: C-PTSD can affect your sense of self and your ability to be present in the moment. You may feel disconnected from yourself and others, or have a sense of being stuck in the past.
  • Self-perception: C-PTSD can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. You may blame yourself for past traumas or feel like you are fundamentally flawed.
  • Nervous system: C-PTSD can cause dysregulation of the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as hypervigilance, dissociation, and flashbacks.
  • Integration: C-PTSD can make it difficult to integrate different aspects of your life and experiences. You may feel like different parts of yourself are in conflict or have trouble connecting with others.

Overall, the psychological and neurological impact of C-PTSD can be far-reaching and complex. However, with proper treatment and support, it is possible to heal from the effects of trauma and reclaim your life.

Can Complex PTSD Co-Occur with Other Mental Health Disorders?

Complex PTSD often co-occurs with other mental health disorders, including borderline personality disorder (BPD), depression, anxiety, and acute stress disorder. The symptoms of these disorders can overlap and make it difficult to diagnose and treat complex PTSD.

BPD and complex PTSD share many symptoms, such as emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and a history of trauma. It is common for individuals with complex PTSD to receive a misdiagnosis of BPD or vice versa. However, it is important to distinguish between the two disorders, as they require different treatment approaches.

Depression and anxiety are also common in individuals with complex PTSD. The symptoms of depression, such as feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, can be exacerbated by the ongoing trauma of complex PTSD. Anxiety can manifest as hypervigilance, panic attacks, and avoidance of triggers.

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a short-term condition that can develop after a traumatic event. It is similar to PTSD but lasts for a shorter period of time. Individuals with complex PTSD may experience symptoms of ASD after a triggering event, which can further exacerbate their overall symptoms.

It is important to seek help from a mental health professional who is experienced in treating complex PTSD and co-occurring disorders. Treatment may involve a combination of therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and medication management.

What are the Treatment Options for Complex PTSD?

If you are living with complex PTSD, there are several treatment options available to help you manage your symptoms and start on the path to healing. Here are some of the most common treatment options for complex PTSD:

Therapy

Therapy is one of the most effective treatments for complex PTSD. Talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and psychotherapy, can help you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to your symptoms.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a type of therapy that uses eye movements to help you process traumatic memories and reduce the intensity of your emotional responses to them. EMDR has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of complex PTSD.

Medications

Medications can be helpful in managing symptoms of complex PTSD, such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids are commonly prescribed for people with complex PTSD.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help you manage symptoms of complex PTSD by reducing stress and anxiety and increasing feelings of calm and well-being.

Overall, it’s important to work with a mental health professional to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage your symptoms and start on the path to healing from complex PTSD.

How Does Support Play a Role in Healing from Complex PTSD?

Support is crucial in healing from complex PTSD. It can come from many sources, including friends, family, community, and caregivers. Having a strong support system can help you feel less alone and provide a sense of safety and stability. It can also help you feel validated and understood, which can be powerful in the healing process.

When seeking support, it is important to find people who are knowledgeable about complex PTSD and who can offer empathy and validation. This can include therapists, psychologists, and support groups. A therapist or psychologist can help you develop coping skills, process traumatic memories, and work through difficult emotions. They can also provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings.

In addition to seeking support from others, it is important to practice self-care. This can include activities such as exercise, meditation, journaling, and spending time in nature. Self-care can help you manage stress and anxiety, and provide a sense of control and empowerment.

There are also many resources available for those healing from complex PTSD. The National Center for PTSD offers information, resources, and support for individuals and their families. They provide access to evidence-based treatments, educational materials, and online resources.

Overall, support is a critical component of healing from complex PTSD. It can provide a sense of safety, validation, and empowerment. With the right support and resources, it is possible to heal and move forward from the effects of trauma.

What are some coping mechanisms and strategies for healing from Complex PTSD?

Coping with the symptoms of Complex PTSD can be challenging, but there are strategies and coping mechanisms that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some coping mechanisms and strategies you can use:

Self-Care

Self-care is an essential part of managing Complex PTSD. Self-care involves taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. Some self-care techniques that can help include:

  • Practicing good sleep hygiene
  • Eating a healthy, balanced diet
  • Engaging in regular exercise
  • Spending time outdoors
  • Engaging in activities that you enjoy

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a technique that involves being present in the moment and paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness can help you manage your symptoms of Complex PTSD by reducing anxiety, depression, and stress. Some mindfulness techniques that can help include:

  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Meditation
  • Yoga
  • Mindful journaling

Coping Mechanisms

Coping mechanisms are behaviors or actions that you use to manage your symptoms of Complex PTSD. Some coping mechanisms that can help include:

  • Seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist
  • Engaging in creative activities or hobbies
  • Practicing relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation
  • Setting boundaries with people or situations that trigger your symptoms
  • Practicing positive self-talk and affirmations

Remember, healing from Complex PTSD is a process, and it takes time. Be patient with yourself, and use these coping mechanisms and strategies to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What research has been done on Complex PTSD?

Research on Complex PTSD is ongoing, with studies focusing on various aspects of the disorder. The American Psychological Association recognizes Complex PTSD as a distinct diagnosis, and the World Health Organization includes it in the International Classification of Diseases.

Researchers have identified that Complex PTSD often results from prolonged exposure to traumatic events, such as childhood abuse or neglect, domestic violence, or captivity. Studies have also found that Complex PTSD may have more severe symptoms than PTSD, including emotional dysregulation, dissociation, and difficulties with interpersonal relationships.

Research has shown that different types of therapy can be effective in treating Complex PTSD. Trauma-focused therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), have been found to be particularly helpful. Additionally, therapies that focus on regulating emotions, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Schema Therapy, can also be beneficial.

While medication can be helpful in managing some symptoms of Complex PTSD, research has shown that therapy is the most effective treatment. However, more research is needed to identify the most effective treatments for different subtypes of Complex PTSD and to better understand the underlying mechanisms of the disorder.

In summary, research on Complex PTSD is ongoing and has identified various factors contributing to the disorder, as well as effective treatments. However, more research is needed to fully understand the disorder and improve treatment outcomes.

Healing from Complex PTSD

Dec 25, 2022

PTSD

Shara Turner, LPC, MSC, NCC, NARM

What is Complex PTSD?

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing chronic or repeated trauma, such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence, and childhood trauma. It is closely related to traditional post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but has additional symptoms, such as difficulties with emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and self-concept.

soldier seated with his head in his hands, dealing with PTSD

C-PTSD is not currently recognized as a separate diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but it is included in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as a subtype of PTSD.

The symptoms of C-PTSD can be severe and long-lasting, and can affect all areas of life, including work, relationships, and daily functioning. They can include:

  • Intrusive thoughts and memories

  • Nightmares and flashbacks

  • Avoidance of triggers and reminders of the traumatic event

  • Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response

  • Emotional dysregulation, including mood swings, anger, and guilt

  • Dissociation and depersonalization

  • Negative self-concept and low self-esteem

  • Impaired interpersonal relationships and trust issues

It is important to seek professional help if you suspect you may be experiencing C-PTSD. A trained mental health professional can help you understand your symptoms, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing from complex PTSD.

What are the Symptoms and Criteria of Complex PTSD?

Recognizing the symptoms of Complex PTSD (CPTSD) can be challenging, as they can vary from person to person and may overlap with other mental health conditions. However, there are some common symptoms and criteria that can help identify CPTSD.

Symptoms of complex trauma can be categorized into four main clusters:

  • Re-experiencing symptoms, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts or memories of the traumatic event.

  • Avoidance symptoms, such as avoiding people, places, or activities that may trigger memories of the trauma.

  • Hyperarousal symptoms, such as feeling jumpy, easily startled, or constantly on edge.

  • Negative self-concept symptoms, such as feeling ashamed, guilty, or worthless.

In addition to these clusters, individuals with CPTSD may also experience difficulty with relationships, somatic symptoms, dissociation, detachment, and shame.

The criteria for CPTSD include experiencing chronic (long-term) trauma, which can result in a sense of helplessness, betrayal, or abandonment. Individuals with CPTSD may also have negative self-perception, difficulty regulating emotions, and impaired self-awareness.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of CPTSD, it is essential to seek help from a mental health professional. There are various treatment options available, including therapy, medication, and self-help strategies, that can help manage symptoms and promote healing.

What is the Psychological and Neurological Impact of Complex PTSD?

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is a severe mental disorder that can have a profound impact on your brain, body, thoughts, emotions, consciousness, self-perception, amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, nervous system, and integration. The psychological and neurological impact of C-PTSD can manifest in various ways, including:

  • Brain: C-PTSD can cause changes in the brain's structure and function, affecting areas such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. These changes can lead to difficulties in emotion regulation, memory processing, and decision-making.

  • Body: C-PTSD can also have physical effects on the body, such as chronic pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal problems. These symptoms can be related to the body's stress response system being activated for prolonged periods.

  • Thoughts: C-PTSD can lead to negative and distorted thoughts about yourself, others, and the world. These thoughts can be difficult to change and can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.

  • Emotions: C-PTSD can cause intense and overwhelming emotions, such as fear, anger, and shame. These emotions can be triggered by reminders of past traumas and can interfere with daily functioning.

  • Consciousness: C-PTSD can affect your sense of self and your ability to be present in the moment. You may feel disconnected from yourself and others, or have a sense of being stuck in the past.

  • Self-perception: C-PTSD can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. You may blame yourself for past traumas or feel like you are fundamentally flawed.

  • Nervous system: C-PTSD can cause dysregulation of the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as hypervigilance, dissociation, and flashbacks.

  • Integration: C-PTSD can make it difficult to integrate different aspects of your life and experiences. You may feel like different parts of yourself are in conflict or have trouble connecting with others.

Overall, the psychological and neurological impact of C-PTSD can be far-reaching and complex. However, with proper treatment and support, it is possible to heal from the effects of trauma and reclaim your life.

Can Complex PTSD Co-Occur with Other Mental Health Disorders?

Complex PTSD often co-occurs with other mental health disorders, including borderline personality disorder (BPD), depression, anxiety, and acute stress disorder. The symptoms of these disorders can overlap and make it difficult to diagnose and treat complex PTSD.

BPD and complex PTSD share many symptoms, such as emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and a history of trauma. It is common for individuals with complex PTSD to receive a misdiagnosis of BPD or vice versa. However, it is important to distinguish between the two disorders, as they require different treatment approaches.

Depression and anxiety are also common in individuals with complex PTSD. The symptoms of depression, such as feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, can be exacerbated by the ongoing trauma of complex PTSD. Anxiety can manifest as hypervigilance, panic attacks, and avoidance of triggers.

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a short-term condition that can develop after a traumatic event. It is similar to PTSD but lasts for a shorter period of time. Individuals with complex PTSD may experience symptoms of ASD after a triggering event, which can further exacerbate their overall symptoms.

It is important to seek help from a mental health professional who is experienced in treating complex PTSD and co-occurring disorders. Treatment may involve a combination of therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and medication management.

What are the Treatment Options for Complex PTSD?

If you are living with complex PTSD, there are several treatment options available to help you manage your symptoms and start on the path to healing. Here are some of the most common treatment options for complex PTSD:

Therapy

Therapy is one of the most effective treatments for complex PTSD. Talk therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and psychotherapy, can help you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to your symptoms.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a type of therapy that uses eye movements to help you process traumatic memories and reduce the intensity of your emotional responses to them. EMDR has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of complex PTSD.

Medications

Medications can be helpful in managing symptoms of complex PTSD, such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids are commonly prescribed for people with complex PTSD.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help you manage symptoms of complex PTSD by reducing stress and anxiety and increasing feelings of calm and well-being.

Overall, it's important to work with a mental health professional to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage your symptoms and start on the path to healing from complex PTSD.

How Does Support Play a Role in Healing from Complex PTSD?

Support is crucial in healing from complex PTSD. It can come from many sources, including friends, family, community, and caregivers. Having a strong support system can help you feel less alone and provide a sense of safety and stability. It can also help you feel validated and understood, which can be powerful in the healing process.

When seeking support, it is important to find people who are knowledgeable about complex PTSD and who can offer empathy and validation. This can include therapists, psychologists, and support groups. A therapist or psychologist can help you develop coping skills, process traumatic memories, and work through difficult emotions. They can also provide a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings.

In addition to seeking support from others, it is important to practice self-care. This can include activities such as exercise, meditation, journaling, and spending time in nature. Self-care can help you manage stress and anxiety, and provide a sense of control and empowerment.

There are also many resources available for those healing from complex PTSD. The National Center for PTSD offers information, resources, and support for individuals and their families. They provide access to evidence-based treatments, educational materials, and online resources.

Overall, support is a critical component of healing from complex PTSD. It can provide a sense of safety, validation, and empowerment. With the right support and resources, it is possible to heal and move forward from the effects of trauma.

What are some coping mechanisms and strategies for healing from Complex PTSD?

Coping with the symptoms of Complex PTSD can be challenging, but there are strategies and coping mechanisms that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some coping mechanisms and strategies you can use:

Self-Care

Self-care is an essential part of managing Complex PTSD. Self-care involves taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health. Some self-care techniques that can help include:

  • Practicing good sleep hygiene

  • Eating a healthy, balanced diet

  • Engaging in regular exercise

  • Spending time outdoors

  • Engaging in activities that you enjoy

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a technique that involves being present in the moment and paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness can help you manage your symptoms of Complex PTSD by reducing anxiety, depression, and stress. Some mindfulness techniques that can help include:

  • Deep breathing exercises

  • Meditation

  • Yoga

  • Mindful journaling

Coping Mechanisms

Coping mechanisms are behaviors or actions that you use to manage your symptoms of Complex PTSD. Some coping mechanisms that can help include:

  • Seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist

  • Engaging in creative activities or hobbies

  • Practicing relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation

  • Setting boundaries with people or situations that trigger your symptoms

  • Practicing positive self-talk and affirmations

Remember, healing from Complex PTSD is a process, and it takes time. Be patient with yourself, and use these coping mechanisms and strategies to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What research has been done on Complex PTSD?

Research on Complex PTSD is ongoing, with studies focusing on various aspects of the disorder. The American Psychological Association recognizes Complex PTSD as a distinct diagnosis, and the World Health Organization includes it in the International Classification of Diseases.

Researchers have identified that Complex PTSD often results from prolonged exposure to traumatic events, such as childhood abuse or neglect, domestic violence, or captivity. Studies have also found that Complex PTSD may have more severe symptoms than PTSD, including emotional dysregulation, dissociation, and difficulties with interpersonal relationships.

Research has shown that different types of therapy can be effective in treating Complex PTSD. Trauma-focused therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), have been found to be particularly helpful. Additionally, therapies that focus on regulating emotions, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Schema Therapy, can also be beneficial.

While medication can be helpful in managing some symptoms of Complex PTSD, research has shown that therapy is the most effective treatment. However, more research is needed to identify the most effective treatments for different subtypes of Complex PTSD and to better understand the underlying mechanisms of the disorder.

In summary, research on Complex PTSD is ongoing and has identified various factors contributing to the disorder, as well as effective treatments. However, more research is needed to fully understand the disorder and improve treatment outcomes.

Table of Contents

←Table of Contents
Scroll to Top
Skip to content