Complex trauma refers to exposure to multiple and/or prolonged traumatic events or experiences, often beginning in childhood or adolescence and continuing into adulthood. Unlike single-incident trauma, such as a car accident, one-time episode of violence, or natural disaster, complex trauma can have a pervasive and lasting impact on an individual’s development and have a profound impact on their sense of self, relationships, and ability to cope with stress.

Complex trauma typically involves exposure to multiple and/or prolonged traumatic events or experiences. The following are some of the most common causes of complex trauma:

• • Childhood abuse and neglect
  • Intergenerational trauma
  • War and political violence
  • Chronic medical conditions
  • Natural disasters

The effects of complex trauma can be severe and long-lasting, resulting in changes in the brain, emotions, behavior, and overall mental health. Impacts of complex trauma may include struggles with identity, substance abuse, anxiety disorders, negative self-esteem, and physiological issues such as chronic pain, headaches, and fatigue.

PTSD, also known as post-traumatic stress disorder, affects millions. It’s important to have an understanding of its causes and symptoms to provide relief to those with it.

PTSD can be caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event that threatens the safety, well-being, or life of oneself or others. Traumatic events can include physical or sexual assault, military combat, natural disasters, serious accidents, or any other situation that involves the threat of death, injury, or harm.

Symptoms of PTSD vary per individual but typically include the following:

• • Intrusive thoughts: These are unwanted and distressing memories, flashbacks, and nightmares related to the traumatic event.
  • Avoidance: People with PTSD may avoid places, activities, or people that remind them of the traumatic event.
  • Hyperarousal: This involves feeling on edge, being easily startled, experiencing irritability, and having trouble sleeping. People with PTSD may feel like they are constantly in danger, even when there is no real threat.
  • Changes in mood and cognition: These can include negative changes in beliefs or attitudes about oneself, others, or the world, feeling detached from others, feelings of guilt or shame, and loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed.

PTSD is typically associated with a single traumatic event, whereas complex trauma refers to exposure to multiple and/or prolonged traumatic events or experiences. Both PTSD and complex trauma can have serious and lasting impacts on individuals, but there are some significant differences between the two.

Complex trauma typically has its roots in ongoing exposure to traumatic experiences over a period of time, such as a pattern of childhood abuse and/or neglect in the home environment. Situations that may create PTSD instead of complex trauma include the following:

• • Sexual abuse
  • Physical violence
  • Serious injuries
  • Natural disasters
  • Combat or military exposure
  • Witnessing or experiencing violence
  • Serious medical procedures or illnesses

One of the key differences between PTSD and complex trauma is the impact on an individual’s sense of self and relationships. People with complex trauma may struggle with issues related to identity, self-worth, and attachment, which can lead to difficulties in forming and maintaining healthy relationships. They may also have more complex symptoms, such as dissociation and emotional dysregulation, which can be more difficult to treat than the symptoms of PTSD.

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for PTSD or complex trauma, but there are common strategies that often provide results for each. PTSD is commonly treated with talk therapy, while complex trauma is often approached with cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing.

Whether you are struggling with a mental health condition, substance abuse, or a dual diagnosis, Beachway can provide you with the support, guidance, and care you need to achieve lasting recovery and wellness. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and services.