ELI5: cptsd
// explanation
What is complex PTSD?
Complex PTSD (or CPTSD) is when someone's brain gets stuck in "danger mode" after experiencing lots of scary or hurtful things over a long time, like abuse or neglect [1]. It's like your alarm system gets so jumpy that it goes off even when there's no real danger [1].
Why does it happen?
When people go through repeated trauma—especially as children—their brain learns that the world isn't safe [1][3]. Unlike regular PTSD from a single event, CPTSD happens from ongoing hurt, so it affects how people see themselves and others [3].
What does it feel like?
People with CPTSD often feel worthless, broken, and very alone even when surrounded by others [3][4]. They struggle to control their emotions and might feel disconnected from people around them, like everyone else belongs somewhere but they don't [4].
How do you fix it?
Treatment usually involves therapy to help people understand what happened and learn that they're safe now [1][2]. Therapists help people manage big emotions and rebuild confidence in themselves [3].
// sources
Apr 5, 2023 ... Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop if you experience chronic trauma, ...
You may have complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if you have some of the symptoms of PTSD, and also have problems with managing your emotions and ...
Complex PTSD includes those symptoms but also requires additional symptoms like difficulty with managing emotions, feeling worthless, and withdrawing.
Jul 25, 2024 ... For me, it's a core sense of being unwanted, unlovable, broken and worthless. It's feeling alone in a group of people. That everyone is either ...
This study employs latent profile analysis to identify the number of latent profiles within a clinical trauma population in Germany (N = 588)
Video by Crappy Childhood Fairy
Video by The Holistic Psychologist
Video by Phoenix Trauma Center & Dr Scott Giacomucci
