What is C-PTSD?

Katie Bellamy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD), is a complex and nuanced condition and emerges from prolonged exposure to traumatic events that often occur in interpersonal relationships or environments where one feels trapped or powerless.

Unlike traditional PTSD, which stems from single traumatic incidents, C-PTSD's roots delve deeper, intertwining with the fabric of one's existence. It's akin to navigating a labyrinth of trauma, where the walls echo with the whispers of past horrors, shaping perceptions, emotions, and behaviors in profound ways.

Signs and Symptoms of C-PTSD

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of C-PTSD is pivotal in understanding its impact on individuals' lives. From emotional turbulence to disturbances in self-identity and interpersonal relationships, the manifestations of C-PTSD are multifaceted and often intertwined. Here, we explore some common signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of C-PTSD:

Emotional Dysregulation: Individuals with C-PTSD may experience intense and fluctuating emotions, ranging from anxiety and depression to anger and profound sadness. These emotions may feel overwhelming and challenging to manage, impacting various aspects of daily life.

Disturbances in Self-Identity: C-PTSD can disrupt one's sense of self, leading to feelings of worthlessness, shame, or guilt. Individuals may struggle to establish personal boundaries, experience difficulties with self-esteem, and grapple with a fragmented or unstable sense of identity.

Impaired Relationships and Attachments: Trauma can erode the foundation of healthy relationships, leaving individuals with C-PTSD grappling with trust issues, boundary violations, and difficulties forming intimate connections. Patterns of relational dysfunction may persist, perpetuating cycles of unhealthy interactions and exacerbating feelings of isolation.

Hypervigilance and Dissociation: Individuals with C-PTSD may exhibit hypervigilance, a heightened state of alertness and arousal in response to perceived threats in their environment. Conversely, dissociation may also occur, where individuals feel disconnected from themselves or their surroundings as a coping mechanism to escape overwhelming emotions or traumatic memories.

Coping with C-PTSD

While the symptoms of C-PTSD are often severe and debilitating, healing is possible. Let’s explore some common strategies for coping with and healing from Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Emotional Regulation Techniques

Practice mindfulness and grounding exercises to bring awareness to the present moment and manage overwhelming emotions. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery can help regulate emotions.

Engage in activities that promote emotional expression and release, such as journaling, art therapy, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist. Expressing emotions in a safe and supportive environment can help alleviate distress and promote healing.

Building a Stable Sense of Self

Explore self-compassion and self-care practices to nurture a positive relationship with yourself. This may involve setting boundaries, prioritizing your needs, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

Seek out therapy modalities such as Schema Therapy or Internal Family Systems Therapy that focus on building a cohesive sense of self and healing relational wounds from past traumas.

Developing Healthy Relationships

Work on improving communication skills and setting boundaries in relationships. Practice assertiveness and assertive communication to express your needs and preferences while respecting the boundaries of others.

Seek out supportive relationships with friends, family members, or support groups who can provide validation, empathy, and understanding. Building a network of supportive connections can help counteract feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Grounding to Cope with Hyperarousal and Dissociation

Practice relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery, to reduce hypervigilance and promote a sense of calm. Engage in regular physical activity, such as yoga or tai chi, to release tension and promote relaxation.

Develop grounding techniques to help anchor yourself during episodes of dissociation. This may involve focusing on sensory experiences, such as touching objects with different textures, or repeating affirmations to bring yourself back to the present moment.

Remember that coping with C-PTSD symptoms is a gradual process, and it's essential to be patient and compassionate with yourself as you explore these strategies. Seeking support from mental health professionals or support groups can also provide valuable guidance and encouragement along the way.

Katie Bellamy, LCPC works with folks healing from trauma and is available via telehealth for talk therapy and somatic therapy to help folks on their healing journey from trauma. Book a consultation call to learn more!