People who experience a traumatic event like a car accident or assault may develop a condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The events that cause PTSD are typically short-term or sudden, such as an accident or assault.
Long-term or persistent trauma, such as ongoing abuse or untreated symptoms of PTSD, may lead someone to develop a condition called complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD).
The World Health Organization introduced this condition in 2018. The WHO proposed classifying it separately. This new diagnosis may account for people’s symptoms that did not fit neatly into the criteria for PTSD.
Mental health specialists use a different set of diagnostic criteria to identify CPTSD. Currently, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) does not provide criteria for diagnosing CPTSD.
CPTSD can make many aspects of life more challenging. However, getting a diagnosis and receiving treatment can help people manage this condition and reduce their symptoms.
This article will explore complex trauma and its treatment. You will learn:
- The symptoms of CPTSD
- The differences between PTSD and C-PTSD
- How CPTSD is diagnosed and treated
- Where to find mental health treatment
If you or someone you love live with CPTSD or another mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Agape Behavioral Healthcare to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.
What is Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is a response to experiencing long-term trauma. Examples of situations that may cause CPTSD may include:
- Experiencing prolonged child abuse or neglect
- Being the victim of prolonged sexual abuses
- Long periods of domestic violence
- Living in a war zone
- Ongoing community violence
- Experiencing human or sex trafficking
Events that lead to CPTSD may occur in childhood or adulthood.
Recognizing the Signs of CPTSD
People who go through traumatic experiences may develop the symptoms of PTSD. If their symptoms remain untreated or they experience repeated trauma, people may develop complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD).
Here is an overview of the symptoms of complex PTSD.
Difficulty regulating emotions
People with CPTSD may have long-lasting sadness, explosive anger, or other intense emotions. They may struggle to regulate their emotions and regain their calm. People may also not feel or express emotions in situations where emotions might be expected.
Negative self-perception
People with CPTSD may struggle with feelings of shame, worthlessness, or guilt. They may have repetitive thoughts about what they could have done to prevent the traumatic event.
Relationship challenges
People with CPTSD may have difficulty trusting others. They may feel awkward or uncomfortable in relationships or avoid being close. People may withdraw from others or avoid people involved with the traumatic memories. Some people may enter into unhealthy or harmful relationships.
Loss of systems of meanings
People with CPTSD may have complex feelings about their faith or philosophical beliefs about others or the world. They may develop pessimism or despair about the world in general.
Changes in self-awareness
People with CPTSD may forget details about the traumatic event. They may dissociate (feel detached from their body or feelings) frequently. They may have only hazy or dreamlike memories about the traumatic event.
People who live with these symptoms may benefit from specialized treatment and therapies. It is possible to treat complex PTSD. Getting a proper diagnosis is critical. If you have symptoms of CPTSD, consult a mental health professional as soon as possible.
What Causes CPTSD?
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a relatively new diagnosis. This may cause some practitioners to misdiagnose it as borderline personality disorder (BPD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other conditions. Increased awareness of this diagnosis and its symptoms may help people receive a more accurate diagnosis.
Mental health experts believe that prolonged or repeated trauma is the primary cause of CPTSD. Some factors may increase the risk of developing CPTSD. Risk factors for developing complex PTSD include:
- A history of a mental health condition, including depression or anxiety
- A family history of mental health conditions
- Lacking a strong support system
- Hormone or neurochemical dysregulation
People who have risk factors for CPTSD and a history of trauma may require specialized assessment and treatment. This will help mental health professionals correctly diagnose and provide treatment for complex PTSD.
Treating CPTSD
Treatment for complex PTSD typically includes specialized therapies and medication. Here is an overview of how CPTSD is treated.
Medications
Doctors may prescribe an antidepressant medication to help people reduce symptoms associated with CPTSD. People often take medications as part of a holistic treatment plan that also includes psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common forms of talk therapy used to treat PTSD and complex PTSD. People learn to identify and change destructive patterns. This allows them to improve their functioning and how they feel.
Other therapies
Practitioners may recommend other therapies, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). People may also make lifestyle changes that support better overall health and well-being. These changes may include regular exercise, social activity, and improved nutrition.
Recognizing the symptoms of CPTSD can help you seek treatment. Contact the Agape Behavioral Healthcare specialists to learn about our mental health treatment and support programs.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Complex PTSD in ICD-11: A Case Report on a New Diagnosis
- World Health Organization (WHO): Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Springer Nature: Predictors of complex PTSD: the role of trauma characteristics, dissociation, and comorbid psychopathology
