PTSD and Trauma
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after an individual goes through a traumatic event like assault, child abuse, war, or disaster. After experiencing trauma, most everyone experiences some level of PTSD, such as nightmares or recurring thoughts of the event. These symptoms usually fade over a short period of time. For some, however, traumatic events can be devastating with long-lasting psychological effects and can interfere with their ability to function. People suffering from PTSD may have difficulty managing everyday activities and may avoid family and friends. They may experience frequent nightmares, flashbacks, or intense feelings of anxiety, depression, or guilt. PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity over time and stronger PTSD symptoms may be triggered when an individual is stressed or encounters reminders of the traumatic events.
Complex trauma or C-PTSD refers to trauma that is prolonged, occurs multiple times, involves harm in an important relationship such as a caretaker, and has the potential to impact your emotional development. C-PTSD frequently results from years of hurtful childhood experiences with caretakers, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. This repeated and ongoing exposure to trauma can have long-lasting psychological effects.