What Is Complex Trauma?

PTSD impacts people in profound ways, but lately, research has shown that there’s a subset of PTSD called Complex Trauma, also known as C-PTSD. 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 that highlight the struggle of those who have 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 vast scope that 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 occurred in their lives.

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

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.

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 lousy 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 that 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 could identify themselves afterward. CPTSD survivors often have 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 are both severe disorders that need access to therapy and people around them who will help them heal. However, because of the hypervigilance, panic, and isolation that 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 essential to know that there is hope for a safe community.

 If you are walking with someone dealing with CPTSD, it’s essential to be steady and committed. Find out more about how to help someone dealing with CPTSD.

Learn More About Complex Trauma…