What Is Complex Trauma?

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The aftermath of anything traumatic can leave a lasting impact on a person's life. After going through something traumatic, it's common for somebody to experience a number of symptoms. Signs of trauma and PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, insomnia, intrusive thoughts, and so much more. It’s important to note that not every single person who experiences something traumatic will go on to experience PTSD. Everyone’s experience of trauma is very personalized. Even in similar events, how a person's mind and body reacts will vary greatly. Some individuals won’t experience any of the symptoms listed above. Instead, they may feel numb, detached, shut down, and spaced out all the time.

While trauma in itself is complex, there is a more specific type of trauma referred to as C-PTSD, or complex post-traumatic stress disorder. If you haven't heard of this type of trauma, you aren't alone. However, you will likely be familiar with the concept behind it.

What is Trauma?

First, we'll briefly explain what post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is.

PTSD occurs when someone goes through a distressing event that impacts them either mentally, emotionally, physically, or sometimes all three in an ongoing way and, no matter how much time has passed, the event continues to negatively impact that person and their life. 

Any situation, no matter how small or big it may seem, can cause someone to experience PTSD in the aftermath. PTSD is more often associated with one traumatic event whereas complex trauma is associated with a series of repeated events. 

Examples of traumatic experiences can include:

  • A car accident.

  • Witnessing or being the victim of a crime.

  • Sexual assault.

These are all singular, stand-alone events. It should be noted that someone may go through multiple traumatic experiences throughout their lifetime. But, with that said, complex trauma is a little different.

C-PTSD Explained

Complex trauma occurs when someone is chronically exposed to traumatic events. Situations such as childhood abuse, neglect, or witnessing domestic violence for a period of time are classic examples of what causes C-PTSD.

Many of the common signs of C-PTSD are similar to the signs of PTSD but some signs specific to C-PTSD include:

  • Feelings of worthlessness and low self-esteem

  • Finding it hard to connect with other people

  • Relationship problems like having trouble making or keeping friends or being in a romantic relationship

  • Having unhealthy patterns in your relationships

  • Trouble setting boundaries

Causes of Complex Trauma

Difficult Childhood

Some people who experience C-PTSD may have had negative and adverse experiences as children or teenagers. When we are developing in our youth, we are in our most vulnerable stage of life. Experiencing chronic traumatic experiences, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, can leave a scar on children as they grow older. Additionally, situations of neglect or not having an adult figure to rely on increases the chances of C-PTSD developing.

Relationships

It might be surprising to hear, but even relationships can cause someone to develop symptoms of C-PTSD. For example, someone may experience multiple betrayals from their partner. Or they may feel abandoned by their parents. When someone is exposed to a relationship that causes them ongoing emotional distress, it not only causes PTSD but also can prevent them from forming healthy connections in the future.

Medical Abuse Or Trauma

Another example of what causes C-PTSD is when someone goes through anything traumatic related to their medical health. Women, especially, are prone to experiencing medical trauma when they have either a difficult pregnancy, labor, or both. C-PTSD can also occur if someone is chronically or terminally ill and has had a lot of negative experiences with doctors, hospitals, or medical procedures. It's not uncommon for C-PTSD to occur if someone has a medical surgery go wrong or they went through a life-saving procedure.

Healing From Complex Trauma

Experiencing any type of traumatic event takes a toll on one's mental and physical health. Complex trauma is no exception to this.

Healing takes time, patience, and commitment. It won't be an overnight change, as much as therapists wish it could be for our clients. When it comes to treating trauma, there are many things you can do each day to promote overall wellness. Deep breathing, mindfulness, and grounding techniques are a great way to begin. Of course, practicing good self-care in the form of nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep is important for your whole body and mind as well. These are good first steps but are not typically going to be adequate to help you move past trauma. The good news is there is a path forward.

The best way to begin treating trauma is through therapy with a therapist that specializes in trauma. When you experience trauma, it has a way of trying to convince you that you are alone and that you aren't strong enough to get through it. With the right support, you can. Don't hesitate to reach out to learn more about trauma therapy and how we can guide you.

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The Legacy of Trauma: Understanding How Trauma Can Be Passed Down

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How Trauma Can Cause Addiction in First Responders