6 Signs of Complex Post Traumatic Stress cPTSD Diagnosis in the ICD-11 | Trauma Informed Care
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The content segments provide an overview of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and its characteristics. CPTSD is not currently recognized as a diagnosis in the DSM-5 TR, but it is included in the ICD-11 used by many other countries. To be diagnosed with CPTSD, individuals must have experienced prolonged or repetitive traumatic events from which escape is difficult or impossible. The perception of what is considered horrific may vary depending on the age of the person.
Individuals with CPTSD experience the core elements of PTSD, including re-experiencing the trauma, avoiding reminders of the event, and hyper vigilance. However, their startle reaction may be diminished due to prolonged activation of the HPA axis. They also face severe problems in affect regulation, dissociative symptoms, and emotional numbing. The dysregulation of the HPA axis in CPTSD can lead to an inability to experience positive emotions.
CPTSD can also result in persistent beliefs of diminished self-worth and difficulties in sustaining relationships due to betrayal or abandonment trauma. Individuals with CPTSD may appear "high-functioning" but require significant additional effort to maintain functioning.
Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to developing CPTSD, and it can lead to cognitive difficulties and emotional dysregulation. The recovery process for CPTSD can be longer and more challenging due to the chronic and repetitive nature of the trauma.
There is overlap between CPTSD and personality disorders, particularly cluster B personality disorders. Symptoms of depression, eating disorders, ADHD, ODD, and separation anxiety disorder can also be present in individuals with CPTSD. Accurate diagnosis is crucial, and the ICD-11 allows for additional co-occurring diagnoses if symptoms are not fully accounted for by CPTSD.
The content segments provide an overview of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and its c