How Do I Know If I Have Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)?
Written by Christoffer Loderup, Therapist at Shade Tree Family Counseling
Have you ever wondered if your past experiences are impacting your life in a deeper way? You might wonder if you have complex PTSD or C-PTSD. In this blog, we’ll discuss the difference between PTSD and C-PTSD as well as ways you can begin healing with professional help in trauma therapy.
CPTSD vs PTSD: What's the Difference?
PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, typically stems from a specific event or a few events that were very stressful. Nightmares, flashbacks, always being on guard, trouble sleeping, trouble concentrating, and emotional outbursts are all common symptoms.
CPTSD shares some of these symptoms, but it arises from a different situation: ongoing or repeated trauma. This trauma often happens in childhood, when escape might not be an option. Adults can experience complex trauma too, such as living in an abusive relationship or a toxic work environment.
Signs of Complex PTSD
In addition to having some symptoms of PTSD, here are some additional signs that you might be struggling with C-PTSD:
You've experienced consistent negative emotional experiences over a long period.
You have feelings of worthlessness, shame, or guilt.
It's hard to manage your emotions.
You struggle to connect with others or maintain healthy relationships.
The Impact of Trauma
Even if you don't have a formal diagnosis of C-PTSD, understanding the impact of complex trauma can be life-changing.
For instance, imagine someone who in their childhood had to keep her parent happy “or else”. That constant worry about maintaining her parent’s emotions is a type of complex trauma that leads to her struggling to speak up for herself in her romantic and professional relationships.
Here’s another example: consider an adult man who, when he was a child, his parents were consumed by his sibling's health challenges. This left him feeling like he couldn't express his own needs or emotions. After years of doing this as a child, it’s led him to continue this pattern into his adult life. He struggles to be vulnerable and open with others, which gets in the way of meaningful connection.
Healing from Complex Trauma
So what can be done about complex trauma? Healing is possible. Some people will write it off as just “who you are”, but know that healing is possible. Here are some steps you can take:
Be kind to yourself. Remember, your “perfectionism” or “not opening up” or whatever it is, helped you to survive through challenging times. Be grateful for how it has helped you.
Be patient. Change takes time and effort. You developed “trauma responses” such as “perfectionism” or “not opening up” over a long period of time. Similarly, it will take time to heal.
Seek professional help. A trauma therapist in Salt Lake City, UT can provide a safe space for you to explore your experiences, heal from trauma, and learn healthier coping mechanisms. EMDR, IFS, and DBT are all evidence-based therapies that can be helpful for trauma.
Remember, you're not alone. Many people live with the effects of complex trauma. With the help of Shade Tree Family Counseling, understanding your experiences, and seeking help, you can move forward and build a healthier life.
Fun Fact! CPTSD: Not Officially Recognized, But Still Valid
Though it may change in the future, it's important to know that C-PTSD isn't currently an official diagnosis (as of writing this blog). Official diagnoses are created by a team of high-level doctors and PhD psychologists. But just because it isn’t officially recognized in diagnosis books, doesn’t mean complex trauma isn’t real. It is real, and it impacts many people. And the concept is helpful for many people because it validates their experiences. Further, many therapists, doctors, and professionals use this term in their practice even though it isn’t officially recognized.
Find Extra Support for Your Trauma with the Help of Trauma Therapy in Salt Lake City, UT
Seeking trauma therapy is a sign of strength and can provide the support and guidance you need to navigate through your emotions to heal. Take the first step towards their recovery by reaching out to a qualified trauma recovery therapist at Shade Tree Family Counseling who specializes in trauma recovery. Your proactive approach can make a profound difference in your journey towards healing and resilience. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if Trauma Therapy is right for you
Begin meeting with a skilled trauma therapist
Have patience with yourself as healing takes time.
Other Services Offered at Shade Tree Family Counseling
At Shade Tree Family Counseling, we want to provide support for the whole family. So in addition to helping you work on coping and begin healing from trauma in Trauma Therapy, our team offers teen counseling for teens struggling to overcome depression, anxiety, family conflict, and more. We also provide Teen Group Therapy for teens looking for extra support from those their own age. For more about trauma therapy check out our blog!
