We often think of trauma as something that stems from a singular, or very short event. We probably think of soldiers in war, or people that have had near-death experiences. That's absolutely a true definition. However, trauma that stems from an extended period of terrible events, like abuse, is unique. We call this complex trauma.

What is Complex Trauma?

Complex trauma is caused by deeply-rooted and persistent forms of trauma. Such events send a high amount of stress hormones throughout the body. Unique treatments are required for conditions such as complex posttraumatic stress disorder, or C-PTSD. 

If not treated successfully, complex trauma can prevent an individual from pursuing their desired lifestyle. Though complex trauma may share some signs and symptoms with PTSD, they are not to be confused with one another.

C-PTSD and PTSD Symptoms 

While complex trauma is formed differently than other types of traumas, they share many symptoms.

Some symptoms of both C-PTSD and PTSD include:

• Intrusive flashbacks and nightmares of the trauma 
• Strained relationships due to avoiding social situations or places 
• Difficulty controlling feelings and emotions— typically leading to extreme anger, sadness or depression 
• Loss of values, principles, and world views 
• Helplessness, guilt, or negative self-view due to negative feeling and actions 
• Suicidal contemplation 
• Stress-induced physical symptoms such as chest pain, nausea, migraines

Though the symptoms may be similar, the root of them for each condition are typically different. With this taken into account, treatment plans will have to be very unique to the trauma. 

PTSD vs C-PTSD 

Complex trauma differs from PTSD in a variety of ways. PTSD often refers to a mental health condition from a single traumatic event. Complex trauma, on the other hand, refers to repeated traumatic experiences over a long period of time. While PTSD can develop at any age, C-PTSD is commonly linked to repeated or ongoing trauma in one’s childhood. 

Even if the anger from the traumatic event has passed, individuals can find themselves feeling profoundly unsafe, fearful, and insecure. Because C-PTSD typically develops during one’s developmental–and, therefore, most impressionable–years, the condition is typically very dynamic and sometimes unpredictable.

Some experts question whether complex trauma should receive its own distinct diagnosis, separate from PTSD. The World Health Organization (WHO), for example, has proposed that C-PTSD be described as a distinct clinical condition. 

Complex Trauma Symptoms

In addition to the symptoms shared with PTSD, complex trauma displays a “cluster” of three additional symptoms: 

• Abnormally regulated emotions 
• Difficulties relating to and connecting with others
• Extremely negative view of self 

In addition to sharing symptoms with PTSD, C-PTSD can also resemble symptoms commonly encountered from borderline personality disorder (BPD). Some common symptoms BPD include: 

• Impulsive, self-destructive tendencies 
• Unpredictable mood swings 
• Paranoia
• Dissociation 
• Explosive anger 
• Feelings of loneliness and emptiness 
• Extreme fear of abandonment

Because so many symptoms overlap between C-PTSD, PTSD, and BPD, it is crucial to understand the traumatic events that caused such symptoms. The time frame, duration, and severity of the event(s) can become critical details when determining a diagnosis.

Examples of Events That May Cause Complex Trauma 

Complex trauma can occur due to a plethora of different events. There are no particular forms of trauma that are more or less prone to causing complex trauma than others. Complex trauma manifests in unique ways for each person. This is why every condition should be treated on a case-by-case basis with empathy, awareness, and discretion. 

Some examples of events that usually lead to C-PTSD symptoms include:

• Neglect, abandonment, or abuse during childhood
• Slavery, torture, or kidnapping
• Prolonged exposure to violence or abuse in household 
• Sexual abuse or forced incestual relations 
• Living in an area of civil unrest— such as severely impoverished areas or a war zone 

These are just several examples of traumatic events that could potentially trigger C-PTSD. The same event could affect separate individuals in completely different ways. There is no way to predict the level of trauma the brain will experience from such events.

How Does Complex Trauma Affect Someone? 

Complex trauma can greatly shape one’s perception of themselves, their relationships, and the world around them. These perceptions typically take a toll on daily life and personal relationships. In some instances, individuals self-soothe through substance abuse.

Day-To-Day Life 

Events occurring in the first ten years of one’s life make major impacts on the years that follow. Experiences, both good and bad, during these early years profoundly impact the development of the brain, body and personality of an individual.

Because complex trauma typically begins during childhood, events in this season of life significantly impacts one’s physical and mental well-being into adulthood. Though complex trauma does not necessarily deter individuals from becoming successful, it can create many roadblocks along the way. 

Complex Trauma and Self Perception

There is a common correlation between trauma and self-worth. Early life trauma, especially when received from a caregiver, feelings of distrust and a poor sense of self-worth typically follow. This is typically because emotional and physical needs were far from being met during this time. 

In addition to these negative feelings, individuals may “act out” or begin to mirror the negative behavior experienced during the traumatic experiences. These actions can result in frequent feelings of guilt or shame, which may progressively lead to depression, anxiety, self-harm, and isolation.

It is common for children with complex trauma to experience some cognitive setbacks. These often make it difficult for them to perform in school and connect with their peers. Some childhood trauma symptoms associated with C-PTSD may include:

• Poor attention span 
• Difficulties surrounding memory and recall 
• Speech and language delays 
• Poor organizational skills and time management 
• Greater intolerance to stress during teenage and adult years 

For those who experienced trauma later in life, similar psychological and physiological changes can take place. These difficulties may show up in the workplace or when accomplishing responsibilities rather than at school. 

Regardless of age, complex trauma should not be dealt with alone. Through support, understanding, and care, the impacts of trauma can begin to be repaired.

Relationships 

Disrupted bonds and difficulties forming authentic connections are typical for those with C-PTSD. It can be incredibly difficult to feel worthy of self-confidence, inclusion, and love. Instances of embarrassment from impulsive behavior or rejection in social settings can lead to the desire to self-isolate and avoid relationships entirely. 

C-PTSD also causes difficulties with: 

• Trusting and bonding with others 
• Communicating feelings and needs 
• Physical and emotional intimacy
• Feeling worthy of love or companionship 

Co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety, BPD, and depression can lead to some very destructive dynamics within relationships. Individuals may begin to define themselves and their relationships by such conditions, feeling frustrated and helpless. 

Whether you are experiencing C-PTSD or looking to help a loved one, know that a healthy and functional relationship is possible. Communication, consistency, and understanding are essential on both sides of the relationship.

Addiction

It is not uncommon for those coping with C-PTSD to lean on the use of substances to self-sooth and temporarily alleviate negative feelings. Trauma greatly affects the brain and its naturally occurring chemicals, with decreased endorphin production being a major one. These chemicals relate directly to feelings of happiness. Mood-enhancing drugs such as alcohol and other stimulants temporarily increase these endorphin levels. 

Prolonged use of such drugs can lead to substance abuse. This is a dangerous way to cope as it directly correlates with a wide array of other health concerns. Additionally, the combined symptoms of both C-PTSD and substance abuse can cause even greater severity of each condition.

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Reaching Out For Help

Trauma survivors often have very unique perceptions of themselves, others and the world. By building new foundations and coping mechanisms, those dealing with C-PTSD can begin to feel secure and capable once again.

The Healing Process

Healing from a condition as deeply-rooted as complex trauma requires patience and a deep understanding of one’s self and the process. A strong support network makes this more approachable and achievable. 

A variety of different practices can begin to heal both the body and mind. Complex Trauma Therapy sessions with expert clinicians help you deal with and process trauma in a constructive way. Additionally, outlets such as art or exercise can help encourage more authentic connections and healthy coping mechanisms. 

The earlier treatment begins, the more likely a person can experience a reversal of the harmful impacts of C-PTSD.

How Inner Balance Can Help

At Inner Balance, an expert team of nurturing and caring experts are here to help you, no matter where you may be in your journey. With over a dozen providers available, help is only a consultation away. 

Inner Balance offers : 

• Online Therapy 
• LGBTQIA+ Affirming Treatment 
• General Mental Health Counseling 

If you or a loved one is struggling with the effects of complex trauma, Inner Balance is here to help. Together, we can find a solution that works best.

Reach out. Show up. Feel better.