What is complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD)?

CPTSD is a mental health condition resulting from prolonged trauma, such as long-term child abuse or domestic violence, and involves difficulties with emotional regulation, identity, and relationships.

What are the key differences between CPTSD and PTSD?

Both CPTSD and PTSD involve symptoms like flashbacks and hypervigilance, but CPTSD also includes chronic issues with emotional regulation, identity, and relationships.

Who can develop CPTSD?

CPTSD is often associated with chronic childhood trauma but can also develop in adults who have experienced similar prolonged traumatic events.

Home / Health / Beyond PTSD: The Deeper Scars of Long-Term Trauma

Beyond PTSD: The Deeper Scars of Long-Term Trauma

19 Feb

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Summary

CPTSD stems from prolonged trauma like child abuse or domestic violence.
It shares PTSD symptoms but adds severe emotional regulation issues.
Adults with chronic trauma also develop CPTSD, not just children.

Beyond PTSD: The Deeper Scars of Long-Term Trauma

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a serious mental health condition linked to prolonged and repeated trauma. Experiences such as long-term child abuse or ongoing domestic violence are primary causes. While adults can also develop CPTSD from similar chronic trauma, it is often associated with childhood adversities.

CPTSD shares core symptoms with traditional post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including flashbacks and hypervigilance. However, CPTSD is distinguished by additional, more pervasive challenges. These often manifest as significant and chronic difficulties with emotional regulation, a disrupted sense of self and identity, and severe problems in interpersonal relationships.

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