Complex, prolonged PTSD (Complex PTSD) develops in people who have been exposed to traumatic experiences in a long-term, repetitive manner. Symptoms include typical PTSD symptoms as well as additional symptoms.
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When can complex, prolonged PTSD occur?
The development of this syndrome often occurs in:
- long-term victims of domestic violence,
- people who were sexually abused in childhood,
- victims of slavery,
- people who experienced long-term neglect from their caregivers in their childhood.
Symptoms of complex PTSD
A man who struggles with complex post-traumatic stress disorder:
- feels a strong fear at the thought of situations and places that are associated with trauma,
- he insistently avoids conversations or even thoughts about the event he has experienced,
- has so-called flashbacks, i.e. sudden, involuntary returns to traumatic memories,
- experiences difficulties in coping with strong emotions,
- has a negative self-image,
- has problems with maintaining close relationships.
How do we treat complex, prolonged PTSD?
As in the case of simple PTSD, psychotherapy is the basis of treatment. We can use various therapeutic streams, including behavioral-cognitive therapy, integrative therapy or EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy.
Pharmacotherapy should be included when the symptoms make it difficult to function on a daily basis. It is often necessary when anxiety symptoms intensify or when the patient suffers from depression.
Therapy for complex PTSD can be a long-term process. We have to work through a trauma that has been developing for months, and sometimes even years. However, the treatment brings very good results and allows the patient to lead a satisfying life, free from anxiety.