Complex PTSD (CPTSD) What it is & Strategies to Cope
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The content segments provide information about Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) and its symptoms, as well as its overlap with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). CPTSD is associated with prolonged or repeated interpersonal trauma, such as child abuse or exposure to domestic violence. It leads to greater functional impairments compared to PTSD, as individuals with CPTSD feel a sense of powerlessness and hopelessness that affects their brain structure and perception of the world.
The core symptoms of CPTSD include re-experiencing trauma, avoiding reminders, mood alterations, cognitive changes, and hypervigilance. Emotional dysregulation is also common, with individuals going from feeling numb to becoming enraged quickly. CPTSD affects a person's sense of self-organization, trust, and ability to respond to stress.
There is overlap between CPTSD and BPD, including fear of abandonment, idealization and devaluation, and a history of trauma. Both disorders can lead to changes in brain structure and increase the risk of re-victimization. Treatment for CPTSD involves creating a sense of safety and developing somatic and emotional awareness. However, caution should be exercised when recommending resources, as some may be triggering for individuals still struggling with trauma.
Individuals with CPTSD may experience difficulty relaxing, startle easily, have sleep disturbances, engage in impulsive behaviors, and struggle with emotional dysregulation. Triggers can activate traumatic memories, leading to fear and stress responses. Negative self-view, avoidance, hyper-vigilance, and loss of trust are also common.
Overall, addressing the underlying trauma and creating a sense of safety and empowerment are crucial in helping individuals with CPTSD manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
The content segments provide information about Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) and it