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Complex PTSD & Childhood Trauma

Childhood trauma, such as abuse, neglect, or prolonged exposure to violence, can lead to complex PTSD (C-PTSD). Unlike standard PTSD, which typically results from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD stems from repeated, chronic trauma that disrupts a child's development. This ongoing trauma can deeply affect a child's sense of self, emotional regulation, and relationships. As they grow, these unresolved issues manifest as C-PTSD, characterized by intense emotional pain, difficulty trusting others, and persistent negative self-beliefs, making healing and healthy relationships challenging.

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Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) often involves more severe symptoms than standard PTSD, reflecting the chronic nature of the trauma experienced. Here are some signs that someone might be struggling with C-PTSD:

 

Emotional and Psychological Symptoms

  • Intense feelings of shame or guilt

  • Persistent sadness or depression

  • Difficulty controlling emotions, leading to intense outbursts or emotional numbness

  • Chronic anxiety, often with panic attacks

  • Feeling hopeless or worthless

 

Interpersonal Difficulties

  • Difficulty trusting others

  • Struggles with maintaining relationships

  • Feeling detached or isolated from others

  • Constant fear of abandonment

  • Repeated unhealthy relationship patterns

 

Negative Self-Perception

  • Feeling permanently damaged or worthless

  • Excessive self-criticism

  • Belief that one is different from others in a negative way

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Re-experiencing the Trauma

  • Flashbacks or intrusive memories of the traumatic events

  • Nightmares related to the trauma

  • Physical sensations or emotional responses triggered by reminders of the trauma

 

Avoidance

  • Avoiding places, people, or activities that trigger memories of the trauma

  • Difficulty recalling specific aspects of the trauma

 

Hyperarousal

  • Being easily startled or hypervigilant

  • Trouble sleeping

  • Irritability or angry outbursts

 

Physical Symptoms

  • Chronic pain or health issues without a clear physical cause

  • Gastrointestinal problems

  • Headaches

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Tom Bolls, MA LPC
Trauma Specialist
EMDR Certified

Don’t let Complex PTSD keep you from living your best life—help is here!

 

Whether you’re struggling or know someone who is, effective therapies such as EMDR can make a huge difference.
 

Ready to start your path to healing? Grab your free 30-minute consultation now. Contact me today and take the first step toward a brighter future!

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Complex PTSD & The Dangers of Repeated Trauma

Alan Schorr describes Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) as a more severe and nuanced form of PTSD that arises from prolonged, repeated trauma, often experienced during childhood. Unlike standard PTSD, which can result from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD results from continuous exposure to trauma, such as abuse or neglect, leading to more profound and pervasive symptoms.

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In his description, Schorr emphasizes that C-PTSD affects an individual’s self-identity and emotional regulation more deeply. It typically includes chronic feelings of shame, guilt, or worthlessness, difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, and a pervasive sense of being damaged or different from others. These symptoms are often accompanied by a constant sense of emotional overwhelm, disconnection, and difficulty in trusting others.

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Schorr highlights that C-PTSD requires a tailored therapeutic approach, addressing both the trauma and the complex emotional and relational patterns that have developed as a result of the ongoing trauma.

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