PTSD vs. CPTSD – What is the Difference?

PTSD impacts people in profound ways but lately, research has shown that there’s a subset of PTSD called Complex Trauma, also known as CPTSD. But what is the difference between PTSD and CPTSD? Are PTSD and CPTSD the same thing or is there a difference?

Let’s learn about PTSD vs. CPTSD…

PTSD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, is widely known thanks to movies and platforms which highlight the struggle of those suffering from PTSD. Most people when they think of PTSD, picture soldiers who experienced harsh battles and were stationed in volatile areas. But PTSD affects more than just soldiers and represents more than just wartime trauma.

Because of the huge scope which encompasses PTSD, a subset named CPTSD was created. There is a big difference between CPTSD and PTSD. The main difference between the two involves the amount of time in which the trauma was able to occur in their lives.

Complex Trauma, CPTSD, represents people who have endured trauma for a long time, often in interpersonal forms.

PTSD is usually formed after a singular trauma that happened for a smaller amount of time. Soldiers develop PTSD after an intense battle. Emergency Responders can develop PTSD after traumatic emergency calls. Some people develop PTSD after a severe car wreck or a bad workplace accident.

When it comes to CPTSD, the trauma has taken place over weeks, months, years, or decades.

For example, the trauma of experiencing child abuse which lasts for months or years can develop into CPTSD. Other forms of trauma which can turn into CPTSD include domestic violence, long-term medical trauma, human trafficking, and prisoners of war/kidnapping victims.

Because of the long-term trauma that has occurred, often in a very personal manner, the symptoms can be more severe and last longer.

Think of it this way: People experiencing PTSD often knew who they were before the trauma occurred and can identify themselves afterward. CPTSD survivors often had trauma at such a young age or with so much psychological abuse that they do not know who they are and cannot identify themselves.

PTSD and CPTSD have many symptoms in common including:

• Traumatic memories / flashbacks
• Nightmares / sleep disturbances
• Avoidance and isolation
• Hypervigilance
• Some dissociation issues

CTPSD also has the following symptoms:

• Emotional flashbacks
• Avoidance and isolation on a chronic level
• Negative self-perception / self worth
• serious dissociation issues
• self-harm / suicidal ideation
• unexplained physical pain
• exhaustion
• relationship issues based on fear of trust
• hopelessness / negative world view
• loss of faith

PTSD and CPTSD are both extremely serious disorders that need access to therapy and people around them who will help them heal. However, because of the hypervigilance, panic, and isolation which come with the disorders, it’s hard to find people who will stay with those who are suffering.

If you are suffering from CPTSD, it’s important to know that there is hope for a safe community.

If you are walking with someone dealing with CPTSD, it’s important to be steady and committed. Find out more on How to Help Someone Dealing with CPTSD.

Learn More about Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder