Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was once known as “shell shock” or battle fatigue and was most commonly known as a disorder that affected war veterans. Today, experts recognize that it can result from any traumatic or terrifying event. It is characterized by unwanted, frightening, and persistent thoughts, emotional numbness, and the reliving of the trauma in the form of nightmares or disturbing memories.
Symptoms may come and go. Sleep problems are also commonly reported as well as depression, a detached or numb feeling, anxiety, and substance abuse. Someone with PTSD is often more irritable or aggressive than before the trauma and may have trouble feeling affectionate. Anniversaries of the event and people, places or things that bring the event to mind are often distressing.
PTSD can occur at any age and may be mild or severe. Typically, the symptoms seem to be more severe if the trauma was initiated by a person (for example, witnessing a murder, as opposed to experiencing a tragic fire). Every day events can become triggers, reminding a PTSD sufferer of the event and provoking flashbacks and intrusive thoughts. Flashbacks can come in the form of sights, sounds, sensations, or even smells that cause the person to believe the trauma is happening again.
PTSD can be treated. Often, treatment options are some combination of psychotherapy, EMDR, Neurofeedback, and medication. Those suffering from this disorder should seek treatment from a professional with specific experience in PTSD.
The above-described PTSD differs significantly from Complex Trauma Disorder or CPTSD (Complex PTSD).
The later is the consequence of ongoing developmental trauma, or repeated childhood experiences that were traumatic in nature. Those might include abuse, neglect, extreme or ongoing emotional conflict, loss, and many other events that were toxic or too difficult for a child’s growing brain and body.
Some personality disorders, addictions, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, and various other symptoms can be attributed to CPTSD. In my opinion, treating the symptoms without addressing the root cause of the problems is negligent and senseless.
Complex Trauma requires a complex treatment approach and extensive experience by a trained therapist. In our practice, we apply an integrative approach that is thorough, time-consuming, and involves many therapeutic modalities. Commitment to the work is essential on both the client’s and the therapist’s side.
Both PTSD and CPTSD improve with the right support and therapy.