Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing events that are dangerous, shocking, or deeply distressing. These events may include sexual violence, accidents, the death of a loved one, war, crime, childbirth, or other highly stressful situations.

While many people who experience trauma may struggle temporarily to adjust, for some, the symptoms persist, intensify, or interfere with daily life over months or even years. When this happens, PTSD can have a profound impact on both mental health and overall well-being.

PTSD symptoms can vary, but they often fall into several key categories:

• Flashbacks or vividly re-experiencing the traumatic event.

• Recurring nightmares.

• Uncontrollable memories that feel like you are reliving the event.

• Physical sensations such as sweating, nausea, shaking, or pain when reminded of the trauma.

Avoidance:

• Staying away from places, objects, or situations that trigger memories of the event.

• Avoiding thoughts, feelings, or conversations about what happened.

Sleep Disturbances:

• Difficulty falling or staying asleep.

• Restless sleep often disturbed by vivid dreams or nightmares.

These symptoms can significantly impact daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life.

What is C-PTSD?

Complex PTSD, or C-PTSD, is a condition that can develop after experiencing prolonged or repeated trauma, often in situations where escape or control wasn’t possible. Unlike traditional PTSD, which is often linked to a single traumatic event, C-PTSD arises from ongoing trauma, such as childhood abuse, neglect, or chronic emotional mistreatment. It’s deeply tied to the relationships we form during those experiences, and its effects can ripple through how we relate to ourselves and others.

Think of C-PTSD as a wound with many layers,it doesn’t just affect memories or emotions, but also how you see yourself, trust others, and navigate the world. It can leave you feeling like you’re constantly “on edge,” stuck in survival mode even when the danger is long past.

Some common features of C-PTSD include:

• Emotional Dysregulation: Feeling overwhelmed by emotions or numb to them altogether.

• Negative Self-Perception: Struggling with feelings of shame, guilt, or believing you’re “not enough.”

• Relationship Challenges: Difficulty trusting others, fear of intimacy, or repeating harmful patterns in relationships.

• Hypervigilance: A sense of being constantly alert, as if danger is just around the corner.

• Dissociation: Feeling disconnected from yourself, your memories, or the present moment.

• Intrusive Memories: Re-experiencing painful moments, either through vivid flashbacks or emotional triggers.

How can CBT help PTSD & C-PTSD?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) offers a range of proven strategies to enhance the quality of life for individuals with PTSD and C-PTSD. These techniques empower you to take back control, helping you navigate the challenges of trauma and rebuild a sense of stability and resilience.