What Makes Complex Trauma Different?

You might have a basic idea of what trauma is. You’ve probably even heard of PTSD and how it can impact people for years. However, fewer people have heard of, or understand the depth of complex trauma.

Complex trauma occurs when an individual goes through prolonged exposure to traumatic events. It often develops during childhood as the result of abuse or neglect. However, it can happen later in life due to things like an abusive relationship or experiencing the hardships and tragedies of war.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes complex trauma different, including what it can look like as an adult if you experienced it as a child.

A Variety of Symptoms

Many of the “traditional” symptoms of PTSD are present in people with complex trauma. That includes everything from flashbacks and vivid memories to avoidance. However, there is also a wider range of symptoms and emotions often associated with complex trauma that are important to recognize.

It’s common for people with complex trauma to struggle with emotional regulation. You might deal with intense mood swings or have a hard time controlling feelings of extreme anger or sadness.

Those feelings tend to become worse because of poor self-perception. You might feel ashamed, guilty, or even worthless, as though you’re somehow damaged from the trauma you experienced. Those thoughts can carry over into every aspect of life, making it difficult to form and keep healthy relationships. They can become so extreme that you dissociate or feel detached from reality.

The Impact of Complex Trauma

If you experienced complex trauma during childhood, it can leave a lasting impact on your life in ways you might not realize. It’s not uncommon for people who go through complex trauma as a child to try to push away those memories. However, they still remain in the mind and body, and can manifest themselves through things like PTSD, depression, borderline personality disorders, or other mental health issues.

Complex trauma can also impact the development of a child. That includes cognitive skills, emotional regulation, and even a child’s physical well-being. While those are things you can work on as an adult, the effects of trauma can make everything feel far more difficult.

A strong support system is incredibly important when you’re dealing with complex trauma. Unfortunately, people who have gone through it tend to keep others at arm’s length. It’s often difficult for those who have experienced prolonged trauma to form healthy relationships. Not only do they see themselves as worthless and shameful, but they also have a hard time trusting others. If you’re someone who has experienced complex trauma, consider how you view other people in your life, including people of authority. Do you have a hard time forming healthy attachments?

How to Overcome the Effects of Complex Trauma

It’s important to understand the differences between trauma and complex trauma so you can get the help you need to treat it. Self-care practices incorporated into your daily routine can be a start when it comes to managing your symptoms. These practices can boost your sense of self-worth and help you manage stress and anxiety.

However, the best thing you can do to treat complex trauma is to work with a mental health professional.

Trauma therapy will help you dig deeper into the past. You’ll go back to the root cause of your trauma and work from the ground up to overcome it. You’ll be in a safe environment that allows you to open up freely, so you can eventually realize that your life isn’t defined by what you experienced.

If you’re ready to start that journey, contact us today for a consultation.