Complex PTSD Treatment
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
C-ptsd Causes & SYMPTOMS
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (Complex PTSD or C-PTSD) is a stress-associated disorder that can manifest after an individual is exposed to a single event or multiple events that are extremely horrific or threatening. In some instances, these traumatic events may have been difficult or impossible to escape from.
At risk individuals include those who experience prolonged domestic violence (controlling, manipulative, or abusive behaviour by the spouse), and victims of slavery, torture, armed conflicts, and genocidal campaigns. Children who have suffered ongoing abuse (sexual/physical/psychological) and/or neglect are also susceptible.
C-PTSD can also affect individuals who have left or are struggling to leave a controlling religious organisation or cult, and have been subject to indoctrination or 'brainwashing'. This type of C-PTSD is known as religious trauma, and is discussed further here.
Individuals who were affected by severely adverse or traumatic events during their developmental years can continue to display symptoms of C-PTSD in adulthood.
Individuals suffering from C-PTSD experience core symptoms of PTSD such as:
- Re-experiencing the traumatic event or period as if it is happening in the now, by way of intrusive memories or flashbacks
- Avoiding reminders of the traumatic event or period such as specific people, conversations, activities, environments, or locations
- Hypervigilance, as characterised by an overtly sensitized startle reaction
Additionally, C-PTSD also results in:
- Affect dysregulation. The individual's ability to regulate positive and negative emotions without becoming overwhelmed is compromised. Emotional numbing can also manifest.
- Negative self belief. The individual may perceive themselves as flawed, worthless, or a failure. Feelings of shame and guilt in relation to the traumatic events can also be present.
- Relationship difficulties. The individual may have trust issues and/or struggle to connect emotionally with others.
Source: International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (11th ed,; ICD-11; World Health Organization, 2019).
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Why you shouldn't diagnose yourself
This page is for information purposes only and is not intended for self-diagnosis. The symptoms described can also be attributable to certain medical conditions, medication, illicit drugs, or other psychological disorders.
IMPACT OF C-PTSD
Complex PTSD can cause significant impacts to an individual's functioning in the context of personal, social, family, educational, and/or occupational domains.
Sufferers of C-PTSD can experience violent emotional outbursts, along with reckless or self-destructive behaviour. Suicidal ideation, substance abuse, depression, and somatic complaints such as physical pain or fatigue can also be present.
Children and adolescent suffers may have an impaired attention span, difficulties with planning and organizing, and problems relating to both peers and adults.
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Attachment styles develop in early life as a result of the quality of love and care that a parent (or primary caregiver) gives their child. The attachment style the child carries through into adulthood can subsequently exert a powerful influence on social, intimate, and coworker relationships.
Children or adolescents who develop C-PTSD from parental trauma may develop a disorganized (fearful-avoidant) attachment style. In adulthood, this can result in the individual being drawn to unavailable or abusive romantic partners. The dysfunctional communication patterns of this attachment style can also lead to strained friendships, romantic relationship breakdown, and workplace conflict.
ARE YOU THRIVING or merely SURVIVING?
the importance of Treatment
Due to the pervasive negative impacts that C-PTSD can exert on an individual's identity, relationships, education, career, and well-being, it is wise to seek treatment.
As core symptoms of PTSD are present with C-PTSD, it is also important to be aware of the physical impacts of PTSD. Long-term overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system in response to a traumatic event or events causes physical changes in both the brain and body. This is associated with an increased risk of illness through cardiovascular, metabolic, and musculoskeletal disorders. Affected individuals may also compromise their health behaviours (e.g. engaging in unsafe sex or excess drinking). A vicious cycle of impaired psychological and physical health can thus eventuate if C-PTSD is left untreated.
Studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Clinical Hypnotherapy for helping individuals recover from C-PTSD. These therapies can assist an individual to reduce the frequency and impact of intrusive memories, overcome avoidance behaviours, and implement more resourceful ways of thinking, behaving, and reacting to stressors. Retraining the nervous system through mind-body practices such as mindfulness or engaging in activities such yoga or Tai-chi is also evidenced to improve mental and physical functioning.
Because people are unique in relation to their genetic makeup, personality, life experiences, and the environment in which they live, some forms of treatment for PTSD/C-PTSD may suit certain individuals more than others.
Barwon Hypnotherapy utilises a number of therapeutic techniques for assisting individuals overcome trauma, and reduce or eliminate distressing symptoms of C-PTSD.
The Rewind Technique has been demonstrated as a safe and gentle treatment for trauma. Your risk of being retraumatized is greatly reduced as during your therapy sessions you do not need to relay the explicit details of what happened in the past. During the Rewind Technique, you will be shown how to review and revisit the traumatic event(s) in a controlled manner using a form of mental dissociation. This can allow you to process the trauma minus any negative emotional and mental impacts, helping you to reduce your symptoms and return to normal functioning.
how soon to a happier, healthier you?
learn to overcome the effects of trauma in the COMFORT OF YOUR HOME
Schedule a complimentary 30-minute Zoom consultation with me to explore the ways in which significant life experiences have affected your well-being and to discuss your desired outcomes. We'll discuss your treatment options and the results you're seeking. I'm here to lend a listening ear, offer guidance, and assist you in finding optimal solutions. If my expertise is not the right fit, I'll gladly provide referrals to other reputable professionals. Secure your free and confidential consultation today!
- Melissiah, Telehealth Therapist