What is Complex PTSD? You Got Diagnosed, Now What?
Introduction
Receiving a diagnosis of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) can be both a relief and a challenge. You may feel relieved to finally have a name for what you’ve been experiencing, but you might also be wondering, "What now?" Complex PTSD is different from traditional PTSD because it arises from prolonged or repeated trauma, often occurring in childhood or in abusive relationships. In this article, we’ll discuss what CPTSD is, the symptoms associated with it, and actionable steps you can take after receiving your diagnosis to begin the healing journey.
For further reading, you can check out Healing from Complex PTSD: Understanding Symptoms & Recovery, which goes deeper into how CPTSD manifests and how to start your healing process.
What is Complex PTSD?
Complex PTSD (CPTSD) is a mental health condition that arises from chronic, long-term trauma, often occurring in childhood, or from situations where the individual feels trapped, such as ongoing abuse or captivity. Unlike traditional PTSD, which can develop after a single traumatic event, CPTSD involves the prolonged exposure to trauma, often resulting in a more complex set of symptoms.
Symptoms of CPTSD:
- Flashbacks and intrusive memories
- Difficulty with emotional regulation, including intense feelings of anger or sadness
- Persistent feelings of shame or guilt
- Difficulty trusting others
- Feeling emotionally numb or detached
- Dissociation—feeling disconnected from your body or surroundings
- Problems with relationships, often due to a fear of rejection or abandonment
These symptoms can be overwhelming, and they often affect your personal, professional, and social life. But understanding CPTSD is the first step toward healing.
Understanding the Difference Between the ICD-11 and DSM-5:
It’s important to note that the ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases) views CPTSD as its own distinct diagnosis, separate from PTSD. This means that in many parts of the world, CPTSD is recognized as a standalone condition, with its own specific diagnostic criteria. However, the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), which is primarily used in the United States, does not currently classify CPTSD as a separate disorder. Instead, the DSM-5 only recognizes PTSD.
This difference can sometimes be confusing when searching for information or seeking a diagnosis. For example, some therapists or mental health professionals in regions that use the DSM-5 might refer to CPTSD under the umbrella of PTSD, even though the condition’s symptoms and underlying causes may differ. It’s important to be aware of this difference and understand that, despite the discrepancy between the two diagnostic manuals, CPTSD is a real and valid diagnosis that many individuals face and work through in therapy.
For more information on PTSD, you can explore Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): A Proven Approach to Healing Trauma, which addresses trauma recovery for both PTSD and CPTSD.
What to Do After a CPTSD Diagnosis?
Getting a diagnosis of CPTSD can be an emotional experience. You may feel both a sense of relief and fear. Relief, because you now have an understanding of your experiences. Fear, because the road to healing can seem long and difficult. But healing is possible, and there are concrete steps you can take to manage your symptoms and reclaim your life.
- Acknowledge the Diagnosis
- Understanding that CPTSD is a result of prolonged trauma can help normalize your experience. It’s important to accept the diagnosis and recognize that your symptoms are not your fault—they are the result of your past experiences.
- Take time to reflect on how this diagnosis helps make sense of the challenges you’ve faced.
- Start Educating Yourself About CPTSD
- Learning more about CPTSD can empower you to manage your symptoms effectively. There are many resources, books, and articles on the topic. Knowledge is power, and understanding the condition is key to managing it.
- For further reading, explore Healing PTSD with Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), which offers an in-depth look at one of the most effective therapeutic methods for treating PTSD and CPTSD.
- Seek Professional Support
- Working with a trauma-informed therapist is crucial. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is the first line treatment for C-PTSD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) are also effective therapeutic approaches for CPTSD. A therapist who specializes in trauma can guide you through processing the trauma and learning new coping strategies.
- If you're wondering how Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) can aid in healing, visit Healing and Empowerment After Childhood Trauma: The Power of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for further insights.
- Practice Self-Compassion and Healing
- Begin to nurture yourself with compassion. CPTSD can leave you feeling ashamed or unworthy, but healing begins with recognizing that you deserve love and care. Start small with self-compassion exercises, such as writing down positive affirmations, practicing mindfulness, or taking a warm bath.
Coping Strategies for Managing CPTSD
Managing CPTSD involves integrating both practical strategies and therapeutic techniques into your daily life. Here are some strategies that may help:
- Mindfulness and Grounding: Practicing mindfulness helps you stay connected to the present moment, reducing feelings of overwhelm. Grounding exercises, such as the “5-4-3-2-1” technique, can help you feel more in control when you’re feeling disconnected or dissociated.
- Journaling: Writing down your feelings can help you process emotions and identify patterns of thought. Journaling can also be a way to release bottled-up emotions and gain insight into your healing process.
- Exercise: Physical activity is incredibly helpful for regulating emotions and releasing endorphins. Regular exercise, such as yoga or walking, can be a great way to connect with your body and release pent-up stress.
- Creating Boundaries: Establishing healthy boundaries is crucial, especially when you’ve experienced trauma. Learn to say no to situations or people that cause distress and practice asking for what you need from others.
The Healing Journey: What to Expect
Healing from CPTSD is a long-term journey, but it is absolutely possible. Progress may be slow at times, and setbacks are normal. Celebrate small victories, such as reduced flashbacks, improved emotional regulation, and healthier relationships. Remember, healing doesn’t mean the trauma is erased, but rather that you learn how to live with it in a healthier way.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you find that your CPTSD symptoms are overwhelming, or if you feel that your current coping strategies aren’t enough, it’s time to seek additional help. Therapy is the most effective way to manage CPTSD, and your therapist can work with you on specific goals for your healing process.
Conclusion
If you’ve been diagnosed with CPTSD, know that you are not alone. Healing is possible, and with the right tools, support, and coping strategies, you can reclaim your life. The first step is acknowledging your diagnosis and seeking the support you need. From there, you can begin to heal, grow, and thrive.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with CPTSD and need support, don’t hesitate to reach out. I specialize in trauma-informed therapy and am here to help you navigate your healing journey. Also, check out our article on What is PTSD? for further insights into trauma recovery.
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