What is complex post-traumatic stress disorder? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as the name suggests, is an anxiety disorder that can occur following a stressful or traumatic event such as a car accident or natural disaster. However, in recent years, a closely related condition called CPTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder) has emerged as a new anxiety disorder now widely recognized and diagnosed by doctors around the world. This disorder is called “complex” because it involves repeated trauma over months or years, versus a single traumatic event that causes simple PTSD. What are the symptoms? In addition to typical PTSD symptoms, people with CPTSD usually experience additional symptoms specific to CPTSD. It should be kept in mind that the signs and symptoms of PTSD and PTSD can vary in a person over time or from person to person. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essaySigns and symptoms of CPSS include: Changes in consciousnessThis symptom is also called “dissociation.” This involves feeling detached from your body or emotions and forgetting the traumatic event. Lack of emotional regulationA CPTSD patient has difficulty controlling their emotions. He or she may experience constant sadness or explosive anger. Relationship Difficulties A patient may feel like they don't know their people, how to interact with them, and find themselves avoiding close relationships with other people out of distrust. Alternatively, some patients may seek relationships with strangers or with people who tend to harm them. Negative self-perceptionA patient is surrounded by a strong negative self-perception. He may feel guilty and ashamed and consider himself completely different from others. Loss of Meaning SystemsThis simply refers to a person's beliefs about the world or religion. A CPTSD patient may lose confidence in strong beliefs related to their religion or develop a strong sense of hopelessness about their environment and the world. What causes CPTSD? Much research is still underway to understand exactly how CPTSD develops. However, several animal studies suggest that any type of long-term or repeated trauma, over several months or years, can lead to CPTSD. This repeated trauma can be physical, mental or emotional. Examples include: Ongoing physical, emotional, or sexual abuse by a friend or relative. Consistent abusive behavior from a protector or caregiver. Continuing Childhood Neglect Being a Prisoner of War The Homeless and Long-Term Drug Addicts How is it Treated? Advanced CPSTD is difficult to manage. However, there are several medical and psychological treatment options that can manage the symptoms and help the patient lead a normal life. PsychotherapyCBT or cognitive behavioral therapy is by far the most effective treatment option for CPSTD patients. This is talking therapy with a psychiatrist, alone or in a group. CBT helps the patient identify negative thought patterns and behavior and provides tools to overcome them. Some patients are also offered dialectical behavior therapy, a type of CBT that helps them cope with stress, respond better to it, and build stronger relationships with others. MedicinesAntidepressants, combined with another form of..