PTSD vs. C-PTSD: Understanding the Difference and Why It Matters

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the more common mental health conditions out there.

The world of mental health has grown over the past few years. More and more people are willing and able to speak to how important mental health is, as well as their personal struggles; however, the world still has a long way to go.

Post-traumatic stress disorder is just one of the many different diagnoses that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.

Let’s take the time to understand the difference between PTSD and C-PTSD and why it matters.

What is PTSD?

PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that a person can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. The cause of PTSD can include events like:

• Natural disasters
• Global pandemics
• Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse
• Car accidents

What is C-PTSD?

C-PTSD or complex post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that a person can develop after experiencing long-term or chronic trauma. Some of the most common causes of C-PTSD involve situations like the following:

• Childhood physical or sexual abuse
• Repeated domestic violence
• Genocide
• Slavery

The Similarities

PTSD and C-PTSD are two different mental health conditions, but they do share a lot of the same signs and symptoms. Here are some of the most common shared signs and symptoms between the two disorders:

• Avoidance
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling on edge
• Flashbacks
• Hypervigilance
• Intrusive thoughts and memories
• Irritability
• Isolation
• Mood swings
• Negative thoughts and emotions
• Nightmares
• Sleeping problems

The Differences

Even though PTSD and C-PTSD share a lot of the same signs and symptoms, the two conditions have a lot of differences that make them separate from one another. These are some of the most common differences between the two conditions.

Additional Signs and Symptoms

Individuals who experience C-PTSD often have additional signs and symptoms compared to individuals who are struggling with PTSD. These additional signs and symptoms can be more chronic, extensive, and severe than the shared signs and symptoms of both PTSD and C-PTSD. An individual who is struggling with C-PTSD may also have difficulty regulating their own emotions, building and maintaining relationships, and having a sense of self through their own identity.

Length of the Trauma

With PTSD, it’s typically a one-time, singular event. C-PTSD normally involves a series of repeated negative experiences or events.

Treatment Options

The treatments that are available for both conditions are generally the same. They each may include therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Individuals who are suffering from C-PTSD may need treatment and additional support for a longer time. Since their trauma happened repeatedly for a longer period, they will need a longer-term and more intensive type of support compared to what an individual who is suffering from PTSD may need.

Next Steps

If you feel that you’re suffering from PTSD or C-PTSD, the best way to find out is to get properly diagnosed by a licensed and trained professional. A healthcare provider will be able to properly assess you based on your signs and symptoms, medical and mental health history, and the traumatic exposure you endured.

While it may feel easier and safer to continue through life without acknowledging your trauma, it’s important to know that this is a short-term solution and can lead to worsening signs and symptoms. A mental health professional will be able to work with you in a safe and secure environment so you can work through those thoughts and feelings you’re trying to bury inside yourself. Reach out today to learn more about how trauma counseling can help you with PTSD or C-PTSD.