Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing long-term and severe trauma.
This condition is a result of severe childhood abuse, ongoing domestic violence, and repeated exposure to traumatizing abuse. This article is a comprehensive guide to understanding Complex PTSD. We will discuss its symptoms, triggers, coping behaviors, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and tips for living with it as well as recovering and thriving after experiencing this kind of trauma.
Symptoms of Complex PTSD
Complex PTSD shows up in all sorts of ways. Its symptoms will extend far beyond those typically associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Some common symptoms include:
Emotional dysregulation: Individuals with C-PTSD may experience intense and unpredictable emotions, including anger, sadness, fear, and shame. Mood swings and emotional instability are common.
Dissociation: Dissociation is a common coping behavior that someone develops as a way to cope with traumatic events. The brain needs a way to escape from oneself, the surrounding environment, or the present experience. It can look like daydreaming, gaps in memory, or just generally experiencing a sense of detachment.
Flashbacks and intrusive memories: Usually when a person overreacts emotionally to a random situation they are experiencing an emotional flashback. C-PTSD often involves intrusive thoughts, memories, and flashbacks related to the traumatic events. These triggers are stressful, leading to great anxiety and panic attacks.
Relationship difficulties: Complex trauma messes up a person's ability to form happy, healthy relationships. Most often experienced challenges are trust issues, difficulties with personal boundaries, and fear of intimacy.
Hypervigilance: A constant state of alertness, anticipating potential threats or danger is more often than not the survivor's constant challenge. Hypervigilance creates a sense of being constantly on edge, twitching, easily startled, and having problems with sleep.
Understanding Triggers of Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Triggers are the manifestation of emotional flashbacks. Certain situations will bring up subconscious memories of your traumatic past and "trigger" strong emotional or physiological reactions. It can feel like a volcano has suddenly erupted. Rage is a common example of a trigger. Triggers will vary from one person to another. Some common triggers for Complex PTSD include:
Sensory cues: Sounds, smells, tastes, and even physical touches or sensations might, in some way, trigger subconscious memories of the past traumatic event. It is not uncommon for particular scents or word phrases from a partner to trigger sleeping memories of past trauma. When a person has a strong emotional response to their surroundings they are most likely experiencing the effects of sensory cues.
Specific locations: You can experience powerful triggers just from being in places that might be associated with the traumatic event, This could be just from being near the location or a place that might be similar in some way to the location where the trauma occurred. Specific locations can literally have the power to evoke very real memories and bring up stressful emotions.
Anniversaries: Sometimes dates that are specifically related to the trauma, such as the anniversary of the traumatizing experience can trigger your emotions. People often unknowingly have emotional flashbacks and/or subconscious memories that arise during anniversaries.
Social situations: Certain social situations are often triggers. This can include being in a crowded place or just simply seeing someone that reminds you of the perpetrator. Old feelings of fear, anxiety, and panic attacks can potentially resurface when exposed to these kinds of situations.
Understanding the Causes of Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Wikipedia defines Complex PTSD like this, "Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a stress-related mental disorder generally occurring in response to complex traumas in addition to commonly prolonged or repetitive exposures to a series of traumatic events, within which individuals perceive few or no chance to escape"
Childhood Abuse: Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse during childhood can't escape the long-lasting effects on a person's mental and emotional well-being.
Domestic Violence: Extensive exposure to domestic violence, whether as a child or adult, will inevitably lead to complex trauma. The ongoing fear, threat, and emotional turmoil associated with domestic violence significantly impacts the victim's psychological state.
War and Combat Experiences: Soldiers and war veterans who've been exposed to prolonged combat situations, witnessed extreme violence, or endured captivity, more often than not, develop Complex PTSD. This is due to the chronic and severe stress endured during these horrific experiences.
Human Trafficking: Those surviving human trafficking almost always have experienced many different kinds of traumatizing abuse. More often than not these include physical, sexual, and psychological trauma. The development of Complex PTSD is inevitable due to the complex and inescapable exploitations experienced by the victim.
Diagnosis of Complex PTSD
Diagnosing Complex PTSD can be a challenge. Understanding Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder continues to be debated about its' acceptance. Since it's not officially recognized as a separate disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) it's frequently disregarded. However, regardless of that fact, there are many awakened mental health professionals who do acknowledge the specific symptoms and the huge, unmistakable impact of complex trauma on survivors.
If you're thinking you have Complex PTSD, it's important to get some therapy from a therapist who specializes in complex trauma. After the conclusion of this article, we have included a list of recommended websites and resources to get you started.
Here at Tarot Wyzdom with Love we support you in your journey by guiding you while navigating your healing process.
Be sure to seek out an in-depth evaluation of your symptoms, your trauma history, and how it has impacted your life.
Coping and Learning to Live With Complex PTSD
Living with Complex PTSD can be challenging, but there are effective strategies that can empower you to manage symptoms and embrace a fulfilling life. Everyone copes in their own unique way, so here are some widely recommended behaviors and practices that can help:
Self-Care: Your well-being matters, so make self-care a top priority. Now is the time to truly focus on activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Pursue hobbies that ignite your passions, and practice mindfulness to find inner peace. Express yourself through creative outlets. Give yourself moments of tranquility and self-indulgence that you truly deserve. Follow an earth-based spirituality,
Establishing Boundaries: Setting clear boundaries in relationships and learning to say no when necessary is essential for self-protection and maintaining emotional well-being.
Seeking Support: Building a support network of trusted individuals, such as friends, family, or support groups, can provide validation, understanding, and a safe space for sharing experiences. Here at Tarot Wyzdom with Love we specialize in coaching you through your healing from trauma.
Therapy: Get into therapy. Find yourself a therapist that specializes in trauma-focused therapy. Learn about cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and teach yourself Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) All of these are very helpful in treating Complex PTSD. Your therapies will help you process your experiences, gain coping skills, and work towards healing.
Self-Compassion: Be kind and understanding towards Yourself. Acknowledge the impact of the trauma. Treating yourself with patience and empathy. It's easy to be angry at yourself for being a victim but self-compassion involves forgiving yourself. Journalling, crystal medicine, and soothing herbs are some gentle approaches t self-compassion
Self-Education: Teach yourself voraciously like you are working on a certification program about all things related to your trauma experience, Complex PTSD, and the recovery process. This will be tantamount to helping you gain a better understanding of your experience, developing self-compassion as well as discovering effective strategies for your healing.
Building Resilience: Be sure to engage in physical activities such as mindfulness, and connecting with a supportive group of friends and family. This will go a long way in coping with the enduring challenges of Complex PTSD.
Establishing a Routine: Creating a structured daily routine can provide a sense of stability, safety, and predictability. Routine is very comforting when you're recovering from Complex PTSD.
Practicing Grounding Techniques: Grounding techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, or using sensory objects, can help individuals manage anxiety, dissociation, or overwhelming emotions.
Treatment for Complex PTSD
We cannot stress enough the importance of treating complex PTSD. Effective treatment requires an approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects. Here are some common and highlighted treatment options:
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, particularly trauma-focused therapies, is considered the primary treatment for complex PTSD. Therapists use various techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.
Medication
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms associated with complex PTSD, such as depression, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and mood stabilizers are commonly used to alleviate these symptoms.
Self-Care and Lifestyle Changes
Engaging in self-care practices and making positive lifestyle changes can significantly support the healing process for those with complex PTSD. This may include incorporating regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques, maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and participating in activities that promote self-expression and creativity.
Support Groups
Joining support groups or participating in group therapy sessions can provide those with complex PTSD a sense of community and understanding. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a platform for sharing coping strategies and insights.
Resources to Help You Heal
Recovering from complex PTSD can be challenging, but there are numerous resources available to support individuals on their healing journey. Here are some valuable resources:
Books:
"The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma" by Bessel van der Kolk: This book explores the impact of trauma on the body and provides insights into various therapeutic approaches for healing.
"Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving" by Pete Walker: This book offers guidance and tools for individuals with complex PTSD to overcome the effects of trauma and build resilience.
"Workbook for Complex PTSD" by Keith Walker
"Healing from Trauma: A Survivor's Guide to Understanding Your Symptoms and Reclaiming Your Life" by Jasmin Lee Cori: This guide helps trauma survivors navigate the healing process by providing self-help exercises and strategies.
"Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma" by Peter A. Levine: This book explores the connection between trauma and the body and provides insights into the natural healing process.
"The PTSD Workbook: Simple, Effective Techniques for Overcoming Traumatic Stress Symptoms" by Mary Beth Williams and Soili Poijula: This therapist-recommended workbook offers practical exercises and techniques to manage and heal from PTSD symptoms.
"In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness" by Peter A. Levine: This book delves into the relationship between trauma and the body, emphasizing the body's innate capacity to heal.
"Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence - From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror" by Judith Herman: This comprehensive work explores the psychological and societal impact of trauma and provides insights into the recovery process.
"The Body Remembers: The Psychophysiology of Trauma and Trauma Treatment" by Babette Rothschild: This book explores the physiological and psychological aspects of trauma and offers practical tools for healing.
"The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and Becoming Whole" by Arielle Schwartz This book is a map to the complicated, and often overwhelming, terrain of C-PTSD
"CBT: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Retrain your Brain to Overcome Depression, Anxiety and Panic Attacks with CBT" by George B. Wells Retrain your brain to overcome the barriers that stand between you and happiness.
Podcasts:
"The Trauma Therapist Project" hosted by Guy Macpherson: This podcast features interviews with leading trauma therapists who share their insights and approaches to healing trauma.
"The Complex PTSD Podcast" hosted by Tabatha Bird Weaver, LPC, LMFT This podcast focuses specifically on complex PTSD and provides information, personal stories, and expert interviews on the subject.
Websites:
National Center for PTSD: A comprehensive resource providing information on PTSD, including complex PTSD, its symptoms, treatments, and self-care strategies.
The Sidran Institute: This organization offers educational resources, support, and advocacy for individuals with trauma-related disorders, including complex PTSD.
The CPTSD Foundation.org: The Foundation for Post-Traumatic Healing and Complex Trauma Research
Complex Trauma Resources: A curated collection of Books, Videos, Articles and more to educate consumers, caregivers, and professionals about Complex Trauma.
Alternative Therapies:
Somatic Experiencing (SE): SE focuses on releasing the energy trapped in the body during traumatic experiences, helping individuals restore their nervous system's natural balance.
Trauma-focused Therapy: Therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Prolonged Exposure Therapy, or Cognitive Processing Therapy can help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories, reduce distressing symptoms, and promote healing.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is effective in addressing negative thought patterns, maladaptive behaviors, and coping strategies associated with Complex PTSD. Its purpose is to identify and challenge unhelpful beliefs and develop healthier ways of thinking and responding.
Online Therapies:
BetterHelp: An online therapy platform that connects individuals with licensed therapists experienced in trauma and PTSD.
Talkspace: Another online therapy platform offering a range of therapists trained in trauma-focused treatments.
Spiritual Paths:
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices such as mindfulness meditation will support you in grounding yourself, managing stress, as well as developing self-awareness, which can greatly benefit you while recovering from complex PTSD.
Check out our own growing body of blogs from Tarot Wydom with Love that address the many aspects of trauma healing.
Organizations and Projects:
NAMI is a reputable organization that offers information, support, and resources for individuals living with mental health conditions. Their website provides comprehensive information about complex PTSD, treatment options, and tips for managing symptoms.
SAMHSA is a government agency that works to improve mental health services in the United States. They offer a national helpline that provides 24/7, free, and confidential treatment referral and information about mental health and substance abuse services.
ISTSS is an organization dedicated to promoting the understanding and treatment of traumatic stress disorders. Their website offers a wealth of resources, including research articles, educational materials, and a directory of trauma specialists.
The Trauma-Informed Care Project provides training, resources, and tools for professionals and organizations working with victims affected by trauma. Their website offers guides, videos, and other materials to help survivors and communities create trauma-informed environments.
5. Your Local Mental Health Services
Reach out to your local mental health services for information on therapists, support groups, and counseling services specializing in complex PTSD. They provide you with valuable local resources and support networks tailored to your specific needs.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can complex PTSD be cured?
While complex PTSD cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment and support. Many survivors with complex PTSD experience significant improvements in their symptoms and quality of life through therapy and self-care practices.
2. How long does it take to recover from complex PTSD?
The recovery process for complex PTSD varies from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the severity of the trauma, the individual's support system, and their commitment to treatment. Recovery is a gradual process that may take months or even years.
3. Is complex PTSD the same as Borderline personality disorder?
Although complex PTSD and borderline personality disorder (BPD) share some symptoms, they are distinctly different diagnoses. Complex PTSD is a result of prolonged trauma, while BPD is a personality disorder characterized by unstable emotions, self-image, and relationships.
4. Can medications alone treat complex PTSD?
Medication alone is not considered a sufficient treatment for complex PTSD. However, medications can be helpful in managing specific symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, or sleep disturbances, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes psychotherapy and self-care practices.
5. Are there any alternative therapies for complex PTSD?
While evidence for alternative therapies in treating complex PTSD is limited, some survivors find certain approaches helpful. These may include acupuncture, yoga, mindfulness meditation, gardening, and art therapy. It's essential to discuss any alternative therapies with a healthcare professional to ensure they are safe and appropriate.
6. How can I support a loved one with complex PTSD?
Supporting a loved one with complex PTSD requires patience, understanding, and empathy. Educate yourself about the condition, listen actively, validate their experiences, and encourage them to seek professional help. Offer your support without judgment and remind them that healing is possible.
Conclusion
Complex PTSD is a challenging condition that requires comprehensive treatment and support. By recognizing the symptoms, seeking appropriate treatment, and accessing available resources, individuals can embark on a healing journey towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. Remember, healing takes time, but with the right support, it is possible to overcome the effects of complex PTSD.
Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical or mental health advice. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please seek the assistance of a qualified healthcare professional.
