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When you've been through many traumatic events over a long period of time, you might have complex PTSD. Read here for more information about what complex PTSD is and how we can help.
What is complex PTSD?
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that can develop after experiencing repeated and prolonged traumatic events. It was a term originally coined by Dr. Judith Herman of Harvard University to describe the symptoms of long term trauma. CPTSD includes symptoms similar to PTSD including re-experiencing traumatic events, avoidance of reminders and heightened vigilance. Additional symptoms of CPTSD can include problems with self-perception, emotion regulation, self-image and relationships.
CPTSD can occur in situations such as domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, war situations or torture. Studies have shown that about 1-8% of the population has complex PTSD (Cleveland Clinic, 2023). CPTSD is a difficult condition that requires prolonged treatment, but we can help.
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Is CPTSD an official diagnosis?
CPTSD is not yet an official psychiatric diagnoses, but it is included in the latest version of the ICD-11 diagnostic manual. Nevertheless, individuals with CPTSD experience a great deal of emotional suffering and are thankfully able to get effective treatment.
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Symptoms of CPTSD
Individuals with CPTSD have symptoms similar to those with simple PTSD, such as:
- Re-experiencing the trauma through nightmares or flashbacks
- Avoidance of feelings, places and situations that remind them of the trauma
- Impact on thoughts and feelings with numbness, difficulty remembering things, negative feelings such as guilt, shame and anger, as well as impact on self-image and negative thoughts about the world.
- Hyperarousal where there is increased activity in the nervous system, which can lead to insomnia, irritation and difficulty concentrating.
CPTSD symptoms can additionally include:
- More severe problems with self-esteem, self-confidence, self-worth and a negative self-image.
- Problems with interpersonal relationships where you may have difficulty establishing and maintaining healthy relationships. You may feel powerless if you are reminded of traumatic events. There are also often problems with trust, attachment and social interaction.
- Changes in emotion regulation which may include problems with impulse control, self-harm or substance abuse as a way of coping with difficulties.
CPTSD and relationships
CPTSD often has a significant impact on relationships. If you have experienced prolonged and often repeated trauma you may have difficulty with trust and closeness. You may have been in a violent relationship where there was a threat to leave, and in these situations additional support is needed from outside sources.
Both children and adults tend to shame and blame themselves when they are victims of domestic violence. It is important to get the right help in order to improve their self-image and build trust. Safe, supportive relationships are important for people with all forms of CPTSD. It is possible to regain control of your life and have better relationships.
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Complex PTSD treatment
There is a growing body of research on CPTSD that emphasizes the need for therapy in order to treat symptoms in the context of a trusting relationship with a therapist. Because CPTSD is a relatively new concept, research about the effectiveness of evidence-based treatments in the long term is limited. However, therapists who treat CPTSD typically use approaches based in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and prolonged exposure therapy.
Anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medications may also be part of treatment for CPTSD. It is essential that therapists and medical providers work together to ensure the individual is receiving the best treatment possible.
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If you are experiencing symptoms of a trauma reaction or PTSD, it’s time to talk with the therapist. Go ahead and search our therapists’ online profiles and find one that’s a good match for you.
12 frequently asked questions about complex ptsd
What is CPTSD?
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that develops after experiencing repeated and prolonged traumatic events.
How does CPTSD develop?
CPTSD can develop in situations such as domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, war situations or torture. What these situations have in common is the frequent exposure to severe trauma that often lasts for a long time.
What are the most common symptoms of CPTSD?
The symptoms of complex PTSD include the symptoms of simple PTSD with re-experiencing, avoidance behaviour and heightened vigilance, but there are also difficulties with self-organization that manifest themselves in negative self-perception, difficulties with emotion regulation and problems with interpersonal relationships.
How is CPTSD diagnosed?
CPTSD is not yet an official psychiatric diagnoses, but it is included in the latest version of the ICD-11 diagnostic manual. Nevertheless, individuals with CPTSD experience a great deal of emotional suffering and are thankfully able to get effective treatment.
Can CPTSD be cured?
Because CPTSD is a relatively new concept, research about the effectiveness of evidence-based treatments in the long term is limited. However, therapists who treat CPTSD typically use approaches based in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and prolonged exposure therapy.
How are relationships affected by CPTSD?
CPTSD often has a significant impact on relationships. If you have experienced prolonged and often repeated trauma you may have difficulty with trust and closeness. You may have been in a violent relationship where there was a threat to leave, and in these situations additional support is needed from outside sources.
Can personality changes occur after trauma?
Trauma affects people in many different ways, including personality changes. It is very common for thoughts, feelings, and typical behaviors to change due to traumatic events because of the significant shifts in physical and emotional states.
What is the difference between PTSD and CPTSD?
CPTSD includes symptoms similar to PTSD including re-experiencing traumatic events, avoidance of reminders and heightened vigilance. Additional symptoms of CPTSD can include problems with self-perception, emotion regulation, self-image and relationships.
Can children have CPTSD?
Yes, children can suffer from CPTSD just like adults. Child therapists with experience treating long term trauma can help these children feel safe, express emotions in a healthy way, and work through their traumatic experiences through playing and talking.
Is CPTSD related to depression?
Yes, individuals can have symptoms of both CPTSD and depression. Many people with CPTSD also have other mental health problems and may develop problems such as self-harm and substance abuse to cope with their emotions.
Are there many people with untreated CPTSD?
Studies have shown that about 1-8% of the American population has complex PTSD (Cleveland Clinic, 2023).
How can I seek help?
You can seek help for CPTSD from one of our licensed psychologists or therapists here at Lavendla by browsing their online profiles, finding a match, and booking your first online consultation.
Can my CPTSD be cured?
It is possible to work through severe trauma and symptoms of CPTSD, but this work takes place over the long term. While there is no way to undo the trauma, you can work with a therapist to better understand your symptoms and find ways to decrease your levels of distress so you can lead a normal life.
More support for CPTSD
In addition to therapy, people with CPTSD often need additional supports. Friends, family, support groups, and other social activities can be helpful in forming connections with others. It is also incredibly important to find activities that you enjoy and are meaningful to you.
Developing a narrative about your life story and the trauma you’ve endured can be incredibly helpful in giving you freedom to focus on the present and the future rather than dwelling on the past. Although therapy can feel uncomfortable or overwhelming, it gives you a safe place to express and explore your feelings, which can significantly help the recovery process. It takes strength to take the first step towards recovery.
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