Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as combat, psychological, physical, or sexual assault, natural disasters, or accidents. Individuals who develop PTSD may experience symptoms such as intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks. Additionally, those with PTSD may notice instability in mood and thinking, bouts of rage, and a tendency to oscillate between avoiding trauma reminders and being hypervigilant toward them.
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is similar to PTSD but stems from prolonged or repeated trauma, often within relationships. Unlike PTSD, which usually arises from a single event, C-PTSD occurs due to ongoing trauma such as repeated childhood abuse, partner abuse, sibling abuse, neglect, bullying, or other interpersonal stressors across different life contexts, including work and school. This repeated trauma deeply impacts intimate relationships, often leading to insecure attachment patterns and difficulties with self-esteem. Forming and sustaining intimate relationships can feel particularly challenging and frightening because of these past experiences. Since these issues span across many relationships over time, it can be hard to connect closely and trust others, making it difficult to feel safe in relationships.