Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (or PTSD) is a disorder caused by a traumatic experience (or series of traumatic experiences) which is very upsetting, frightening and stressful. It can develop immediately after such an event or many weeks, months or years later.
Events such as road traffic accidents, being the victim of extreme violence or attack, witnessing extreme violence or an attack, military combat or being part of a natural disaster can all lead to PTSD.
The most common symptoms of PTSD are flashbacks (intrusive thoughts) and nightmares which make the individual feel like they are experiencing the trauma again. This is often accompanied by feelings of panic and fear, depression, irritability and guilt. Sleeping and concentrating may also become very difficult. People use the avoidance response and are hypervigilant.
Treatment for PTSD depends on the symptoms you are experiencing but usually involves a combination of psychological treatments such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing) or CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), medication in the form of antidepressants or anxiety-reducing tablets and relaxation therapies.
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a condition that results from prolonged or repeated exposure to traumatic events, often over months or years rather than a single incident. This type of trauma can stem from enduring situations such as long-term abuse, captivity, domestic violence, or exposure to war zones. Unlike PTSD, which can arise from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD encompasses a broader range of symptoms due to the chronic nature of the traumatic exposure.
Individuals with C-PTSD may experience the core symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, along with additional symptoms that can significantly impact their emotional and social functioning. These may include difficulties in controlling emotions, feeling very hostile or distrustful towards the world, and a persistent sense of hopelessness or despair. Other common features include challenges in sustaining relationships, a distorted perception of the perpetrator of the trauma (which may include a preoccupation with revenge or a misplaced loyalty), and a severely damaged self-concept.
Treatment for C-PTSD often involves a comprehensive, multi-faceted therapeutic approach. Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), has been found effective. These therapies work towards processing the trauma, teaching coping strategies to deal with intrusive symptoms, and rebuilding a sense of safety and trust. Given the complexity of C-PTSD, treatment can be long-term and may also involve support for associated conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It is characterised by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional distress that persist long after the event has passed.
The most common symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories or flashbacks, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, emotional numbness, heightened anxiety, and avoidance of reminders related to the trauma. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and relationships.
While PTSD typically results from a single traumatic event, Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) arises from prolonged or repeated trauma, such as ongoing abuse or captivity. C-PTSD includes all the core symptoms of PTSD but also involves difficulties with emotional regulation, self-perception, and interpersonal relationships.
While some people may see improvement over time, PTSD rarely resolves completely without professional support. Left untreated, symptoms can become chronic and interfere with daily functioning. Early intervention with therapy or medication can significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Anyone can develop PTSD following a traumatic event, but individuals with a history of trauma, mental health conditions, or lack of social support may be more vulnerable. Military personnel, first responders, survivors of abuse, and individuals exposed to serious accidents or violence are particularly at risk.
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