Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is a common mental health condition that many people have a basic understanding of.

It’s most commonly associated with the loss of a loved one, coming back from war, or being involved in or witnessing a serious accident.

But did you know that there are various levels of PTSD? PTSD can be unique to each individual, depending on the specific event and a person’s unique experience. PTSD is also considered being on a spectrum and there are even subtypes of PTSD—one of those being C-PTSD.

What exactly is C-PTSD? Let’s learn more.

What Is C-PTSD?

C-PTSD stands for complex post-traumatic stress disorder. While PTSD is typically caused by a singular, traumatic event, C-PTSD involves more severe signs and symptoms due to prolonged or ongoing trauma.

Contributing Factors

The events that contribute to C-PTSD are usually dangerous, challenging or impossible to escape from, and repetitive. A person is more likely to develop C-PTSD if:

Escaping or rescuing seemed or was impossible
They were harmed by someone close
Multiple traumas occurred
Trauma lasted for a long time
They experienced trauma at a young age

These are some examples of situations that can lead to C-PTSD:

Childhood abandonment
Childhood neglect
Emotional abuse
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Genocide
Kidnapping
Ongoing domestic violence
Prisoner of War
Slavery
Torture

The Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of C-PTSD are similar to those of PTSD.

Avoidance
Detachment
Dissociation
Dizziness
Flashbacks
Headaches
Hypervigilance
Negative thought patterns
Nightmares
Suicidal ideation

In addition to common PTSD symptoms, a person with C-PTSD will also experience:

Anger
Difficulty controlling emotions
Emptiness
Feeling emotionally numb
Feeling permanently damaged
Hopelessness
Lack of trust in the world
Low self-esteem
Relationship problems
Worthlessness

Living With C-PTSD

Living with C-PTSD can cause a lot of added stress and changes in one’s life. While seeking additional support through a licensed and trained mental health professional is always the best course of treatment, there are some lifestyle changes that you can implement to better manage the signs and symptoms moving forward.

Body Scan

Flashbacks and nightmares are common with C-PTSD. These can make you feel like you’re back living through the trauma again. Completing a body scan can help you realize that you’re living in the present moment and not stuck in the past.

Deep Breathing

When a person experiences stress or anxiety, their breathing can change. Taking time to focus on your breathing can help calm and regulate your breathing so it returns to normal.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques are a great way to stay grounded and connected to the present moment. Engage in activities that help promote a state of calm, like going for a walk outside, meditation, listening to music, or yoga.

Repeat a Mantra

Write some phrases that you can repeat to yourself the next time you’re feeling anxious or stressed. “I am safe,” or “This will pass,” are just two of the many phrases that you can have on deck. Repeating a phrase over and over again can help you feel better and actually start to believe that phrase instead of those negative thoughts and feelings.

Write in a Journal

Writing in a journal is a great way to release, reduce, and relieve these anxious thoughts and emotions. Instead of holding in how you’re feeling, you’re able to use pen and paper to let go of what no longer serves you. Not only is journaling a beneficial tool for when you’re feeling anxious, but you can also use it to look back on later to help you determine triggers as well as coping mechanisms that may have worked for you.

Treatment Options

A mental health professional is a phone call away. If you’re struggling with C-PTSD, working with a therapist can help you get your life back on track again. Reach out today to learn more about how trauma therapy can help with C-PTSD.

What Is C-PTSD? Understanding Symptoms and Contributing Factors