Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a mental health condition that develops in response to prolonged or repeated trauma, often occurring in childhood or over an extended period.
Unlike standard PTSD, which is usually linked to a single traumatic event, CPTSD is associated with ongoing abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or captivity.
What is CPTSD?
Symptoms of CPTSD
People with CPTSD may experience:
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Intense emotions, difficulty managing anger, sadness, or numbness.
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Feelings of shame, guilt, or worthlessness.
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Struggles with trust, forming connections, or a fear of abandonment.
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Feeling detached from reality or re-experiencing trauma.
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Always feeling on edge, easily startled, or overwhelmed by stress.
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Withdrawing from life, suppressing emotions, or feeling disconnected.
CPTSD typically results from:
Childhood abuse or neglect
Long-term domestic violence
Human trafficking or captivity
War or prolonged exposure to conflict
Institutional abuse (e.g., cults, foster care trauma)