Experiencing a traumatic event can leave a lasting imprint on your mental and physical health. People who experience a highly stressful or frightening event may develop a condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Experiencing ongoing trauma, such as living in a war zone or experiencing abuse, may cause a different mental health condition called complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). Mental health professionals are beginning to research C-PTSD and develop more effective treatments for it.
This article will explore C-PTSD. You will learn:
- The symptoms of C-PTSD
- What may cause C-PTSD
- What to expect in treatment for C-PTSD
- Where to find C-PTSD treatment in New Jersey
If you or a loved one struggles with symptoms of C-PTSD or other mental health conditions, you are not alone. Contact the New Jersey Behavioral Health Center specialists to explore our mental health treatment and support programs in Hillsborough, New Jersey. Reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is C-PTSD?
A single traumatic event, such as a sexual assault or natural disaster, can cause someone to develop PTSD. People may experience PTSD symptoms related to this single event for months or years after it occurs.
Individuals who experience prolonged exposure to traumatic experiences may develop a different mental health condition called complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD).
Examples of experiences that may cause C-PTSD include:
- Living in a war zone
- Being the victim of human or sex trafficking
- Experiencing long periods of domestic violence
- Being the victim of childhood abuse or neglect
- Living through repeated or ongoing sexual abuse
- Living in a community with ongoing violence
Complex PTSD can develop after exposure to traumas during childhood or adulthood. People may have lasting physical or emotional responses. The symptoms of PTSD and C-PTSD can vary from person to person. Levels of emotional distress can change over time.
Mental health experts believe certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing C-PTSD. These include:
- A family history of mental health conditions
- Hormone or neurochemical dysregulation
- Lack of social support
- A personal history of anxiety or depression
PTSD and C-PTSD are treatable. People must receive comprehensive, tailored treatment to address the symptoms of these complex conditions.
The Signs of C-PTSD
People who experience a single traumatic event may develop PTSD. Those living with prolonged exposure to trauma or extreme stress may develop C-PTSD.
Some symptoms of PTSD and C-PTSD are similar. However, it is critical to identify the symptoms of C-PTSD and seek the appropriate treatment.
Here is an overview of common C-PTSD symptoms.
Changes in self-awareness
People with C-PTSD may not remember the details of their trauma. They may experience dissociation or a sense of detachment from their bodies.
Relationship difficulties
Relationships can be challenging for people with C-PTSD. They may struggle to trust others or have unhealthy relationships.
Challenges with emotional regulation
People with C-PTSD can live with emotional instability. They may experience long periods of sadness or have frequent outbursts of intense anger. They may struggle to regain their calm or feel emotionally restricted.
Negative self-image
People with C-PTSD may have feelings of shame or worthlessness. They may blame themselves or consider how they might have prevented the traumatic events.
Shattered systems of meaning
People with C-PTSD may struggle with complicated feelings about systems they once trusted, including faith or family systems. They may develop a general sense of despair or pessimism about the world.
The symptoms of C-PTSD can impact daily functioning, relationships, mental health, and more. Contact the New Jersey Behavioral Health Center specialists to learn about treatment for C-PTSD or other mental health conditions.
What to Expect in C-PTSD Treatment in New Jersey
Treatment for C-PTSD typically includes behavioral therapies, medication, and complementary therapies. Here is a brief overview of what to expect in C-PTSD treatment..
Medications
Doctors may prescribe an antidepressant medication to help people reduce symptoms associated with CPTSD. People often take medications as part of a holistic treatment plan that also includes psychotherapy.
Talk therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common forms of talk therapy used to address C-PTSD. CBT helps people identify and change destructive patterns of thinking and behavior. People learn more effective coping skills for managing symptoms and improving daily functioning.
Other therapies
Practitioners may recommend other therapies to address the symptoms of C-PTSD. These therapies may include eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a safe, non-invasive therapy that may reduce the impact of traumatic memories.
People with C-PTSD may also benefit from making lifestyle changes to support their general health and well-being. These include getting regular exercise, increasing social activity, and improving nutrition.
Contact New Jersey Behavioral Healthcare to learn more about treatment for C-PTSD.
Find C-PTSD Treatment in New Jersey
If you or someone you love struggles with the effects of trauma, you are not alone. Find effective, compassionate mental health treatment at New Jersey Behavioral Health Center. Contact our specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Center for PTSD: Complex PTSD: History and Definitions
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Complex post-traumatic stress disorder
- Science Direct: Reconceptualizing complex posttraumatic stress disorder: A predictive processing framework for mechanisms and intervention
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