What is Complex PTSD?
Complex PTSD is diagnosed if the person had long term exposure to trauma or witnessed traumatic events and it is considered more complex if:
- The person experienced a traumatic event in their childhood
- They were exposed to repeated or prolonged traumatic experiences
- They were alone during the traumatic event
- A parent/carer caused the trauma
- There is still interaction with the abuser
Main Symptoms of Complex PTSD:
Emotional Dysregulation
A difficulty in identifying, comprehending or controlling emotions. This can be magnified when the person is triggered by situations during which one experiences sudden intrusive feelings which resemble past traumatic experiences.
Difficulty with self-perception
Experiencing emotions such as, guilt, shame, helplessness. Continuous worry of “being in the way” or a “burden” to someone as well as feeling different (“alien”) from other people.
Changes in Awareness
Forgetting traumatic events, dissociating from the emotions or body (i.e. prolonged daydreaming, feeling spaced out, feeling disconnected from one’s body or mental processes, periods of losing attention).
Difficulty with Relationships
Avoiding relationships with other people due to mistrust or due to not knowing how to interact with others. Some might get involved in unhealthy, emotionally unavailable or harmful (i.e. toxic or abusive) relationships.
Experiencing Physical Symptoms
Headaches, stomach aches, chest pains, fatigue.
Disruptive Thoughts and Behaviours
Unhelpful and suicidal thoughts, alcohol addiction, drug abuse or, self-harm.
Distorted Beliefs About the Meaning of Life
Traumatic experiences may lead to an individual gaining a negative view of society and leave them lacking faith in humanity. This can hinder the persons ability to forgive and move forward.