Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) are both mental health conditions caused by experiencing trauma, but they have some important differences. Knowing how they are different can help you get the right diagnosis and treatment. Read on to understand whether you might have PTSD, complex trauma, or both!
What is PTSD?
PTSD develops after someone experiences a traumatic event, like an accident, assault, or natural disaster. It causes three main types of symptoms:
Re-experiencing: People with PTSD often have flashbacks, nightmares, or unwanted memories of the event.
Avoidance: They may try to avoid thinking about the event or stay away from places, people, or things that remind them of the trauma.
Being on high alert: This means feeling jumpy, anxious, or always on guard, as if something bad might happen.
PTSD is usually caused by a single event or a short-term trauma and makes people feel fear and anxiety related to what happened.
What is Complex PTSD (c-PTSD)?
c-PTSD is similar to PTSD, but it happens after a person has experienced trauma over a long period of time. This could be things like ongoing abuse, violence, or being in a dangerous situation for a long time. In addition to the symptoms of PTSD, c-PTSD has three extra symptoms:
Trouble controlling emotions: People with c-PTSD may find it hard to manage their feelings, which can lead to anger outbursts, feeling numb, or being overwhelmed by emotions.
Negative self-thoughts: People with c-PTSD often feel like they’re worthless or guilty, and they may blame themselves for the trauma.
Problems with relationships: They may have a hard time trusting others or getting close to people, which can make relationships difficult.
How Are PTSD and c-PTSD Different?
Both PTSD and c-PTSD involve some of the same symptoms, but here’s how they differ:
Type of Trauma: PTSD usually happens after a single traumatic event. CPTSD happens after repeated or long-term trauma, like childhood abuse or being in a violent relationship.
Emotional and Self-Worth Issues: c-PTSD affects your sense of identity (how you see yourself in general) and general ability to manage your emotions, while PTSD doesn’t usually cause these issues.
Relationship Struggles: People with PTSD may avoid certain places or people, but those with c-PTSD often have more trouble building trust and staying close to others.
Can You Have PTSD and c-PTSD at the Same Time?
Sarah grew up enduring emotional and physical abuse, leading to Complex PTSD (CPTSD). As an adult, she struggles with low self-esteem, emotional regulation, and trust in relationships—hallmarks of CPTSD from long-term trauma.
Later, Sarah is in a car accident, triggering Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). She now experiences flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety related to the accident, adding to her existing CPTSD symptoms. Sarah has both CPTSD from childhood abuse and PTSD from the car accident. While CPTSD impacts her self-image and emotions, PTSD is tied to the specific accident. Each condition requires its own treatment to address both the ongoing and recent trauma.
Can PTSD and c-PTSD Be Treated?
Good news! PTSD and c-PTSD are both treatable. Treatments like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can help people with both conditions process their traumatic experiences. However, people with c-PTSD often need extra help learning how to control their emotions and improve their relationships. Therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) can help with these issues.
Conclusion
While PTSD and CPTSD share some similarities, c-PTSD comes from long-term trauma and includes more emotional and relationship difficulties. By understanding the difference between the two, people can get the right help and support they need to heal.