An analysis of complex PTSD
Written in association with:
Psychiatrist
Published: 06/06/2024
Edited by: Aoife Maguire
Distinguished consultant psychiatrist Dr Madeline Kerr analyses complex PTSD, including its triggers, how it can be treated and explains how it differs from traditional PTSD.
What is complex PTSD and how does it differ from PTSD?
PTSD, short for post-traumatic stress disorder, typically emerges from threatening experiences where a person fears for their safety or the safety of loved ones. Processing such trauma becomes a daunting task due to the horrifying extent of the situation, often leading individuals to avoid thinking about it once it's passed. Consequently, symptoms persist, manifesting as hyper-vigilance, sleep disturbances, constant tension, anxiety, and recurring flashbacks.
Those suffering from PTSD often experience nightmares, as they relive their trauma. Contrary to complex PTSD, which stems from multiple traumatic incidents occurring over an extended period, traditional PTSD typically arises from one or two isolated events. Complex PTSD, often rooted in childhood abuse or prolonged threatening situations, brings about additional symptoms resulting from prolonged states of alertness.
Living in a perpetual state of vigilance takes a toll on the body, leading to exhaustion and eventual crashes into depression. Sleep disturbances become chronic, exacerbating the condition. Moreover, individuals with complex PTSD may develop unique coping mechanisms stemming from childhood misconceptions about their role in traumatic events. They assume that everything happens is because of something they've done very often. they think, certain things happen due to something they have done.
They find themselves doing maybe avoiding certain situations for fear that it will bring on another threat. People with complex PTSD tend to be quite shut down. They're much more like to socially withdraw, to isolate and keep themselves apart from others, particularly in an overwhelming environment such as noisy social ones and are much more like struggle with depression.
Additionally, they may experience heightened emotions, or emotional dysregulation, where emotions change quickly. They may feel happy one moment, but sad the next.
Sometimes individuals may adopt unhelpful coping mechanisms, such as self-harm or substance abuse, as a means of coping with their trauma. The distinction between complex PTSD and PTSD lies in the multitude of long-term alterations individuals with complex PTSD make in how they engage with the world around them.
What are the common triggers for complex PTSD?
The most common scenario I encounter is often twofold. Individuals typically seek help due to a recent event in their adult life, often involving a threatening situation like an abusive relationship. However, in cases of complex PTSD, there's often a backdrop of childhood adversity. This might involve witnessing parental conflict or experiencing inconsistency in parental figures, such as alternating between love and anger or availability.
This childhood history is frequently observed in cases of complex PTSD and can predispose individuals to struggle with understanding healthy relationship dynamics. Consequently, they may find themselves more prone to engaging in unhealthy or negative relationships, which can perpetuate the cycle of trauma into adulthood. These early experiences serve as significant triggers for later traumatic events.
How can complex PTSD be effectively treated?
The best approach to treatment involves a combination of strategies. Unfortunately, there's no single medication that can erase past traumas, but various medications can help alleviate symptoms associated with them. Antidepressants, for instance, can address depression and anxiety, as they often possess both antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties. However, the most effective treatment for complex PTSD is therapy, particularly trauma-focused therapy conducted in a safe environment.
While online therapy is an option, face-to-face sessions are often preferred as they allow for a more immersive experience. Being physically present enables individuals to delve into the difficult process of reliving and processing their trauma within the therapy room, providing them with the opportunity to then step away and take a break from it all. This form of therapy serves as the cornerstone for addressing complex PTSD.
Furthermore, therapy involves exploring one's relationships and understanding the patterns formed as a result of past experiences. By reshaping these patterns and cultivating healthier relationships, individuals can make significant strides in their recovery journey.
What are some coping strategies for managing complex PTSD symptoms?
One crucial aspect to consider is what to avoid, and crucial thing to avoid is alcohol. Although it may seem tempting as it provides a sense of relaxation, especially for those with PTSD or complex PTSD who struggle to fall asleep, alcohol ultimately exacerbates symptoms. While it may offer temporary relief, the aftermath often involves heightened symptoms the next day.
Finding alternative methods to manage sleep or relaxation is advisable. Engaging in therapy is a highly recommended coping strategy. Additionally, setting aside time during the day to process overwhelming emotions, and having a trusted individual to confide in can provide valuable support during difficult times.
If you are suffering from PTSD and would like to book a consultation with Dr Kerr, do not hesitate to do so by visiting her Top Doctors profile today