Understanding Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD)
What is CPTSD?
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a psychological condition that can arise from prolonged exposure to traumatic events, particularly where escape or relief seems impossible. Unlike PTSD, which often stems from a single event, CPTSD is typically associated with long-term trauma such as chronic abuse, captivity, or prolonged domestic violence.
Signs and Symptoms of CPTSD
Recognizing CPTSD can be challenging as its symptoms are diverse and can vary significantly among individuals. Some common signs include:
- Emotional Regulation Difficulties: Intense emotional responses, persistent sadness, explosive anger, or subdued emotions (emotional numbness).
- Distorted Self-Perception: Feelings of helplessness, shame, guilt, or being completely different from others.
- Interpersonal Difficulties: Problems in sustaining relationships, mistrust, or a preoccupation with the abuser.
- Preoccupation with the Traumatizer: This can include preoccupation with revenge or giving the abuser power over one’s life.
- Persistent Negative State: Ongoing feelings of hopelessness, despair, or depression.
- Detachment from Reality: Dissociation, or feeling detached from one’s body or thoughts.
- Avoidance: Avoiding people, places, or situations that remind one of the traumatic experience.
- Hypervigilance: An enhanced state of sensory sensitivity accompanied by an exaggerated intensity of behaviors whose purpose is to detect threats.
Long-term Effects
If left unaddressed, CPTSD can lead to a range of long-term issues such as severe anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and a variety of physical health problems due to prolonged stress.
Call to Action: Seek Help from Shauna, LCPC
If you or someone you know is showing signs of CPTSD, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Shauna, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at Ironwood Counseling, is experienced in dealing with the complexities of CPTSD. With Shauna’s help, you can:
- Understand Your Experience: Gain a deeper understanding of your symptoms and the impact of your trauma.
- Learn Coping Strategies: Develop effective coping mechanisms to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
- Healing and Recovery: Work through traumatic memories and experiences in a safe, supportive environment.
- Rebuild Relationships: Learn skills to build and maintain healthy relationships.
- Empowerment: Rediscover your strength and resilience, moving towards a more empowered and hopeful future.
Taking the First Step
Reaching out for help is the first, and often the most challenging, step on the journey to recovery. By contacting Shauna Summers, LCPC, you’re not just seeking therapy; you’re taking a bold step towards reclaiming your life from the shadows of trauma.