Understanding Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a psychological condition that develops in response to prolonged, repeated exposure to traumatic experiences—especially those that occur in situations where a person feels trapped or powerless. While many people are familiar with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which is often linked to a single traumatic event, C-PTSD arises from ongoing trauma that can span months or even years.

Common sources of complex trauma include childhood abuse or neglect, domestic violence, human trafficking, living in war zones, or long-term emotional manipulation. Because the trauma is sustained, it deeply affects a person’s sense of identity, safety, and ability to relate to others.