Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or Complex PTSD, is a mental health condition that arises from long-term trauma. Unlike PTSD, which typically results from a single traumatic event, complex PTSD develops after repeated exposure to trauma over a prolonged period.

Understanding Complex PTSD

Complex PTSD shares many symptoms with PTSD, but it also includes additional features that make it distinct. Common symptoms of complex PTSD include:

  • Emotional Regulation Difficulties: People may experience intense emotions and struggle to manage them. This can lead to explosive anger, persistent sadness or feelings of emptiness.
  • Negative Self-Perception: A person with complex PTSD may feel worthless or guilt-ridden. They may harbor a deep-seated belief that they are somehow “bad” or “damaged.”
  • Relationship Problems: Trust issues and difficulty maintaining relationships are common. Survivors may isolate themselves or develop an unhealthy dependency on others.
  • Dissociation: This involves feeling detached from reality, as if living in a dream. It can also include memory gaps about the trauma.
  • Hypervigilance: Constantly feeling on edge or being overly alert to potential threats is a hallmark of complex PTSD.

Complex PTSD vs. PTSD

While complex PTSD and PTSD share some overlapping symptoms, the key difference lies in their origin and additional symptoms. PTSD typically stems from a single traumatic event, like an accident or assault, while complex PTSD results from ongoing trauma, such as childhood abuse or captivity. The additional symptoms of complex PTSD, such as emotional regulation difficulties and negative self-perception, further differentiate it from PTSD.

Diagnostic Criteria for Complex PTSD

Diagnosing complex PTSD can be challenging due to its overlap with other mental health conditions. However, mental health professionals use complex PTSD diagnostic criteria that generally include:

  • A history of prolonged trauma
  • Symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks and avoidance
  • Additional symptoms like emotional regulation issues, negative self-view and relationship difficulties

If you suspect you or a loved one might have complex PTSD, it’s important to seek a professional assessment. Only a qualified mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment for Complex PTSD

Treating complex PTSD typically involves a combination of therapy and medication, tailored to the person’s needs. Here are some common approaches for healing complex PTSD:

Complex PTSD therapy

  1. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): This is a structured, short-term therapy that helps people process and reframe negative thoughts related to trauma. It’s effective in reducing PTSD symptoms.
  2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This therapy involves guided eye movements to help the brain process and integrate traumatic memories. It can significantly alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories.
  3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is particularly effective for those with emotional regulation difficulties. It teaches coping strategies to manage intense emotions, improve relationships and reduce self-destructive behaviors.
  4. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy: This longer-term therapy delves into the unconscious processes affecting current behavior. It aims to uncover and resolve deep-seated emotional conflicts stemming from past trauma.

Complex PTSD medication

Medication can be an important part of the treatment plan, especially for managing symptoms like depression or anxiety. Common medications include:

  • Antidepressants: These can help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  • Anti-anxiety Medications: These are typically used short-term to manage severe anxiety symptoms.
  • Prazosin: This medication is often prescribed to reduce nightmares associated with PTSD.

Medication should always be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional, who can adjust the dosage as needed.

Healing from Complex PTSD

Healing from complex PTSD is a journey that involves rebuilding trust and safety in oneself and others. Here are some practical steps that can aid in the healing process:

Building a support network

A strong support network is crucial for recovery. Surround yourself with understanding friends, family or support groups who can provide emotional support. Consider joining groups specifically for trauma survivors, where you can share experiences and coping strategies.

Practicing self-care

Self-care is essential in managing complex PTSD symptoms. This includes:

  • Regular Exercise: Physical activity can improve mood and reduce stress.
  • Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like meditation and yoga can help ground you in the present moment and reduce anxiety.
  • Healthy Lifestyle Choices: A balanced diet, adequate sleep and avoiding alcohol or drugs can have a positive impact on mental health.

Professional guidance

Working with a therapist who specializes in trauma can provide you with tailored coping strategies and emotional support. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help; recovery is more manageable with expert guidance.

Get Help for Complex PTSD in North Carolina

Complex PTSD is a challenging condition, but understanding its symptoms, getting a proper diagnosis and pursuing effective treatment can lead to significant improvement. Whether you’re a family member of someone struggling with complex PTSD or dealing with it yourself, there is hope and help available. Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, Holly Hill Hospital provides mental health treatment for people struggling with mental health conditions, including complex PTSD. Contact us today for an assessment to determine the level of care we recommend to help you to start feeling better, sooner.

About Holly Hill Hospital

Holly Hill Hospital is an inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and addictive disease health system for patients of all ages. Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, we pride ourselves on helping patients return to their families and communities happier and healthier for nearly 40 years. We give our patients excellent coping and recovery skills.

We have several different nurturing and beautiful locations, which includes our main, adult and children’s locations. Some of our services comprise of our child, adolescent, young adult, adult and geriatrics programs. Through these programs we provide treatment for dual diagnosis/co-occurring disorders, depression, addiction treatment and more.

To schedule a no-cost assessment or for more information, please call 833-425-1800