Complex PTSD vs. PTSD: What is the Difference?
Wednesday April 7, 2010
The symptoms of PTSD apply well to people who have experienced a discrete or short-lived traumatic event, such as a motor vehicle accident, natural disaster, or rape. However, the symptoms of PTSD do not always completely map onto the experiences of people who have experienced chronic, repeated, or long-lasting traumatic events, such as childhood sexual and/or physical abuse, domestic violence, or captivity.
When it comes to these events, the symptoms of PTSD do not really seem to completely describe the psychological harm, emotional problems, and changes in how people view themselves and the world following chronic traumatic exposure. Therefore, some mental health professionals believe that we should distinguish between the type of PTSD that develops from chronic, long-lasting traumatic events as compared PTSD from short-lived events. The diagnosis of "Complex PTSD" refers to the set of symptoms that commonly follow exposure to a chronic traumatic event.
You can learn more about complex PTSD and its symptoms in this article.
http://glclk.about.com/?zi=8/9V%5Bm
FYI-It has been suggested that I have Complex PTSD
Dear Jennie,
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate your blog to help shed light on Complex PTSD. There isn't enough available on this condition. I have a psychologist who doesn't take it seriously and doesn't stay abreast of the latest trauma information. The Complex PTSD community is tiny where I am and I lost my original psychologist who was a pro in the trauma area. I feel such despondency and hopelessness but it helps to see this horrific condition discussed. Thanks Jennie. I wish you well.
Keep blogging please :-)
Peace and care,
Christine.