Understanding The Triggers Of C-PTSD

June 08 2024 TalktoAngel 0 comments 941 Views

PTSD , or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health issue that can arise following exposure to or witnessing a traumatic incident. This event may present a threat to one's spiritual, emotional, or physical health, and it can impact individuals of any age.

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD ) is a type of PTSD that can manifest as a mental health issue following sustained exposure to chronic trauma. Such trauma might involve enduring instances like prolonged child physical or sexual abuse, ongoing domestic violence, or being exposed to the rigors of war. Individuals with C-PTSD commonly exhibit symptoms akin to PTSD, alongside notable challenges in regulating emotions, maintaining a coherent sense of self, and fostering healthy relationships.

In C- PTSD, individuals may frequently encounter what is referred to as an "emotional flashback," wherein they relive intense emotions similar to those experienced during the initial trauma, such as fear, shame, sadness, or despair. Consequently, they may react to current events as if they are responsible for these emotions, often without recognizing that they are experiencing a flashback.

Symptoms of C- PTSD:

Someone with complex PTSD may exhibit symptoms beyond those typically associated with PTSD. Typical symptoms shared by both PTSD and complex PTSD include:

Evading circumstances reminiscent of the trauma

Recurring distressing memories and nightmares related to the traumatic incident

Prolonged avoidance of stimuli linked to the trauma

Hyperarousal, characterized by a constant state of heightened alertness

Persistent negative beliefs or outlooks concerning oneself, others, or the world

Challenges with sleep or focus

Triggers for C-PTSD:

A trigger is anything that evokes a memory of trauma or a part of a traumatic experience. They can vary in predictability and may be obvious or subtle. Triggers are unique to each individual's experiences and perspectives, but they commonly include sights, smells, sounds, and locations.

What makes triggers challenging is that they can be linked to any aspect reminiscent of past trauma. For instance, the smell of childhood food or hearing a song from a difficult time can trigger complex PTSD symptoms. Triggers can also be tied to specific times of the year, holidays, anniversaries, or times of the day.

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) typically arises from prolonged exposure to traumatic events or situations, often during childhood, and is characterized by a range of symptoms affecting emotional regulation, self-concept, interpersonal relationships, and somatic experiences. Triggers for C-PTSD can vary greatly from person to person, but some common triggers include:

Reminders of the Trauma: Certain sights, sounds, smells, or sensations that resemble aspects of the original traumatic experience can trigger intense emotional and physiological reactions.

Physical or Emotional Triggers: Physical sensations such as pain, fatigue, or illness, as well as emotional states like anger, fear, or sadness, can serve as triggers for memories or emotions associated with past traumatic experiences.

Substance Use or Withdrawal: Substance use or withdrawal from substances can exacerbate symptoms of C-PTSD, as individuals may use substances as a way to cope with distressing emotions or memories related to past trauma.

Loss or Bereavement: Loss of loved ones, whether through death, separation, or estrangement, can evoke feelings of grief, abandonment, or loneliness, exacerbating symptoms of C-PTSD.

Overwhelming Emotions: Intense emotions pose significant challenges in relationships involving individuals with complex PTSD. Past traumas often involve overwhelming emotional experiences, so strong emotions can serve as reminders of those events, triggering distress and difficulty regulating emotions.

However, triggers for C-PTSD can be highly individualized, and what may serve as a trigger for one person may not necessarily trigger symptoms in another. Additionally, triggers can change over time as individuals work through their trauma and develop coping mechanisms. Therapy, self-care strategies, and support from loved ones can help individuals with C-PTSD manage and reduce the impact of triggers on their daily lives. Complex PTSD clients have treatment options, even though it can feel very overwhelming to overcome the condition. A person with CPTSD may consider different levels of interventions like:

Prescription drugs like antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed.

Psychotherapy sessions aimed at addressing and processing traumatic experiences.

Exposure therapy involves confronting distressing memories within a supportive environment.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) targets maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors.

Conclusion:

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a severe mental health condition resulting from prolonged exposure to chronic trauma. Unlike PTSD, which can arise from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD stems from sustained trauma, often occurring during formative years. Symptoms of C-PTSD extend beyond those of PTSD, encompassing emotional regulation difficulties, a disrupted sense of self, and challenges in relationships. Triggers for C-PTSD are highly individualized, ranging from sensory reminders of trauma to overwhelming emotions, and can significantly affect daily functioning. Managing C-PTSD involves a multifaceted approach, including prescription medications, various forms of psychotherapy, and support from loved ones. Despite the overwhelming nature of the condition, treatment options offer hope for individuals to manage and reduce the impact of their symptoms, leading to improved quality of life.

For those seeking professional help, top psychologists in India and reputable online counseling services can provide valuable support. Psychowellness is known for its comprehensive mental health services, offering expert guidance in managing C-PTSD. Another excellent resource is TalktoAngel, an online counseling platform that connects individuals with experienced therapists specializing in trauma and C-PTSD, providing accessible and effective mental health care from the comfort of home. These resources can play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate their journey toward healing and recovery.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach & Ms. Samta Pareek, Counselling Psychologist