What is Complex PTSD?

-Complex PTSD or CPTSD, is a form of post-traumatic stress disorder that is the result of trauma sustained over a period of time, usually from childhood physical and/or sexual abuse. Although, survivors of concentration camps and survivors of domestic violence can develop CPTSD. The key difference being the trauma was chronic over time.

How is CPTSD it different from PTSD?

-CPTSD has all of the symptoms of PTSD, but includes several other symptoms in addition to those, including:

• Difficulty regulating emotions and experiencing persistent sadness, suicidal thoughts, and rage.

• Disassociation that pulls a person out of the moment, amnesia about the trauma, or obsessing about or reliving the trauma.

• Feeling different than other humans with persistent helplessness, stigma, shame, or guilt.

• Seeing the perpetrator in a distorted way, either giving them too much power or obsessing about revenge.

• Problems with mistrust, isolation, or searching for a “rescuer” when it comes to personal relationships.

• Despair, hopelessness, and lack of meaning in life.

• Tendency to self-harm or self-medicate.

What are some current treatment options?

-While the best approach is always specific to the individual, there are some current therapeutic approaches to CPTSD that have proven to be effective. Individuals suffering from CPTSD may benefit from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to manage triggers and self-regulate. EMDR has also been shown to have positive results for CPTSD, and is widely used for PTSD. It's usually helpful to talk to a licensed professional to determine the best approach for the situation. 

Where can I get more information/help?

-If you think you may be affected you can take a free self-assessment from the International Trauma Consortium here: www.traumameasuresglobal.com. To find a licensed counselor for professional help, please go to www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists.