C-PTSD (Complex posttraumatic stress disorder) is a variant of post-traumatic stress disorder that usually results from prolonged exposure to a traumatic event or series. Most Adults with C-PTSD have experienced chronic trauma as children which can lead to long-lasting psychological problems with many aspects of emotional and social functioning later on in life.

Common examples of C-PTSD include:

• Domestic physical or sexual abuse
• Childhood physical or sexual abuse
• Kidnappings and entrapment
• Slavery
• Prolonged imprisonment and torture
• Prolonged exposure to crisis situations
• Taking care of chronically sick on a long term basis

Difference between PTSD and C-PTSD

The characteristics of Complex PTSD differentiate slightly to those of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Complex posttraumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is caused by a chronic, prolonged or repetitive exposure to a traumatic event. Such events may involve entrapment and exposure to prolonged trauma where there is a lack of power, control or feasible escape.

Those who suffer from Complex PTSD often experience a loss of self worth, self sense, trust and safety. It is the loss of self sense that particularly differentiates Complex PTSD from regular PTSD.

Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms

C-PTSD symptoms can start within weeks of the traumatic event but unfortunately often take many years to be recognised. Symptoms of C-PTSD include:

• Dissociation; life becomes detached from personality and identity
• Depersonalisation; no sense of personal identity or character
• Feelings of anger; explosive and passive
• Complete loss of confidence
• Feelings of shame, hopelessness or guilt
• Suicidal thoughts
• Inclination to forget the cause of pain and trauma
• Preoccupation to seek revenge upon perpetrator

People who have been tortured and abused repeatedly or for a prolonged amount of time develop a lack of trust in people and a sense of separation from the world. Children who suffer from abuse can be adversely affected; they often cope by becoming extremely aggressive and defensive or isolate them selves from what is going on around them. When they grow up the symptoms mentioned will become a predominant part of their personality.

CPTSD treatment

There are a variety of treatments available to help those with C-PTSD reduce and overcome its effects. The stages of treatment for Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder are very similar to those described in our Post Traumatic Stress Disorder page. For further information regarding anxiety treatment please refer to our Anxiety Treatment pages.