Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) represents a distinct and often more debilitating variant of traditional PTSD. C-PTSD is the result of prolonged exposure to trauma, particularly in interpersonal relationships. The repercussions of C-PTSD can negatively impact one’s ability to sustain professional, platonic, and romantic relationships. The behavioral health experts at our Northeast rehab in Wilkes-Barre delve into the intricate web of complex PTSD Triggers in relationships. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of these triggers, shedding light on their consequences and coping strategies for both sufferers and their loved ones.
Complex PTSD vs. PTSD
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder are mental health disorders that share similarities as well as distinctive characteristics. Understanding the differences between C-PTSD and PTSD is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective mental health care.
PTSD typically arises in response to a single traumatic event or a series of traumatic experiences. These experiences are often life-threatening or involve a perceived threat to one’s physical or emotional well-being. Hallmark symptoms of PTSD include intrusive thoughts or memories, flashbacks, nightmares, heightened startle response, and avoidance of reminders of the trauma.
In contrast, C-PTSD is caused by prolonged exposure to traumatic events, especially those involving repeated interpersonal trauma or abuse, such as childhood neglect or continuous domestic violence. C-PTSD is characterized by a broader range of symptoms that surpass those seen in individuals with PTSD. These additional symptoms may include disturbances in self-identity, emotional regulation difficulties, problems with relationships and trust, a sense of chronic emptiness or despair, and a distorted self-image.
While both PTSD and C-PTSD involve significant emotional distress and impairment in daily functioning, C-PTSD encompasses a more complex set of symptoms that stem from chronic and repeated trauma, more commonly stemming from interpersonal relationships. Healthcare professionals must differentiate between the two conditions when assessing and treating individuals who have experienced trauma, as treatment and intervention methods may vary.
What Are the 17 Symptoms of Complex PTSD?
C-PTSD is marked by a range of symptoms that extend beyond those typically associated with traditional PTSD. These symptoms include the complex and pervasive nature of the traumatic events that underlie C-PTSD. While these symptoms are not limited to 17 symptoms, we’ve listed the 17 most common symptoms of C-PTSD:
- Anxiety: Excessive worry, panic attacks, and generalized anxiety that can disrupt daily functioning.
- Attachment issues: Struggles with forming and maintaining healthy, secure attachments in relationships.
- Chronic shame: An often unjustified sense of shame and self-blame.
- Depersonalization: A sense of being detached from one’s own body or feeling like an observer of one’s life.
- Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities.
- Difficulty in setting boundaries: Struggling to establish and maintain personal boundaries in relationships.
- Dissociation: Feeling disconnected from oneself, surroundings, or reality.
- Emotional dysregulation: Difficulty managing and regulating emotions.
- Flashbacks: Intrusive and distressing memories of past traumatic events, often accompanied by a sense of reliving the experience.
- Hypervigilance: An exaggerated state of alertness and constant scanning for potential threats.
- Low self-esteem: A distorted self-image and negative self-perception, often stemming from trauma.
- Self-harm behaviors: Engaging in self-destructive behaviors as a way to cope with emotional pain.
- Social isolation: Withdrawal from social interactions and relationships.
- Somatic symptoms: Physical complaints and health issues related to the impact of chronic stress and trauma on the body.
- Substance Abuse: Using drugs or alcohol to cope with emotional distress caused by C-PTSD.
- Suicidal thoughts: Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, often related to overwhelming emotional pain.
- Trust issues: Difficulty in trusting others due to past betrayal or abuse.
People with C-PTSD may not experience all these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Additionally, C-PTSD symptoms can change over time and may be triggered by specific situations or reminders of past trauma.
C-PTSD diagnosis and treatment typically require a thorough assessment by a mental health professional with expertise in trauma-related disorders. These professionals address the complex PTSD diagnostic criteria in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) to help reach a diagnosis.
Common Complex PTSD Triggers In Relationships
C-PTSD can be influenced by triggers in interpersonal relationships. These triggers can worsen symptoms and disrupt the individual’s healthy functioning. Here are some common complex PTSD triggers in relationships:
- A lack of emotional support or understanding in the relationship.
- Any form of perceived betrayal, such as lying, cheating, or breaking trust.
- Any reminders of past traumatic events.
- Attempts by others to control or dominate.
- Emotional vulnerability and closeness of intimacy.
- Fear of abandonment or rejection.
- Feeling ignored, overlooked, or unimportant.
- Feelings of isolation or loneliness.
- Financial difficulties or instability.
- Heated arguments, conflict, or confrontations.
- Inconsistent or unpredictable behavior in others.
- Infidelity.
- Invading the individual’s personal boundaries or personal space.
- Loud noises, yelling, or aggressive behavior.
- Parenting responsibilities and challenges.
- Significant losses, such as the death of a loved one.
- Traits or behaviors in others that resemble those of past abusers.
It’s important to recognize that C-PTSD triggers in relationships can vary from person to person, depending on the individual’s unique history of trauma. Effective psychotherapy and support can help individuals with C-PTSD learn to manage and mitigate these triggers, enabling them to develop and sustain healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
How to Cope With Complex PTSD Triggers
Coping with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) triggers can be challenging, but with the right strategies, individuals can learn to manage and mitigate their responses. Here are some effective ways to cope with C-PTSD triggers:
- Identify and recognize your triggers.
- Use grounding techniques to reconnect with the present moment.
- Plan what to do when you are triggered.
- Engage in activities that distract you from the trigger.
- Practice self-soothing techniques.
- Learn and practice progressive muscle relaxation techniques.
- Keep a journal to record and better understand your triggers, thoughts, and emotions.
- Consider trauma-focused therapy, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
- Work with a therapist to develop specific coping strategies.
- Reach out to friends, family, or support groups for emotional support.
- Create a daily routine that includes self-care practices.
- Treat yourself with kindness in moments of distress.
- Seek safety when a trigger is overwhelming.
- Consult a medical professional about the potential benefits of medication, if needed.
Learning to cope with C-PTSD triggers is a continuous process, and what works best for one person may not work for another. It’s important to be patient with yourself and seek professional help when needed. Over time, it is possible to reduce the impact of triggers and lead a more fulfilling life.
How to Be in a Relationship With Someone Who Has Complex Trauma
Being in a relationship with someone who struggles with complex PTSD can be challenging, but with patience and compassion, it’s possible to foster and sustain a healthy relationship. Here are some tips for dating someone with C-PTSD:
- Educate yourself about C-PTSD to better understand what they’re going through
- Encourage open and honest communication
- Understand and respect your partner’s boundaries
- Be patient with your partner
- Avoid the triggers you’re aware of
- Encourage your partner to seek out professional help
- Take care of your well-being so you can be there for your partner
- Empathize with your partner rather than feel sorry for them
- Avoid pressuring your partner to share their trauma
- Take the time to learn your partner’s triggers and coping mechanisms
- Acknowledge and celebrate all of their milestones
- Maintain healthy boundaries with your partner to protect your well-being
Remember that every individual’s experience with C-PTSD is different, and what works in one relationship may not work in another. Communication and mutual understanding are key. Remember to practice patience with your partner and yourself as you navigate the complexities of a relationship impacted by complex trauma.
You don’t have to deal with C-PTSD on your own. Our Northeast rehab in MA offers residential mental health care that addresses trauma-related disorders such as C-PTSD. We can offer you or a loved one a safe, effective, and individualized treatment plan.
