COMPLEX PTSD
Complex PTSD (CPTSD) is a mental health condition that develops from prolonged or repeated traumatic experiences, often occurring over months or years. Unlike traditional PTSD, which typically stems from a single traumatic event, CPTSD results from ongoing trauma, such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, or prolonged exposure to threatening situations.
Symptoms of Complex PTSD
CPTSD shares core symptoms with PTSD, including:
- Reexperiencing trauma through emotional flashbacks
- Hypervigilance and heightened sense of threat
- Avoidance of trauma-related triggers
Additional symptoms specific to CPTSD include:
- Difficulty regulating emotions
- Feelings of worthlessness, shame, and guilt
- Problems forming and maintaining relationships
- Dissociation or feeling detached from one’s body or mind
Causes and Risk Factors
CPTSD often develops from repeated trauma, particularly when inflicted by someone in a position of trust or care. Common causes include:
- Childhood abuse or neglect
- Domestic violence
- Sexual abuse
- Prolonged exposure to threatening situations
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing CPTSD include experiencing trauma at a young age, being unable to escape the traumatic situation, and having limited support systems
Impact on Daily Life: PTSD
Living with CPTSD can significantly affect various aspects of life:
- Employment challenges due to emotional regulation difficulties
- Strained personal relationships
- Sleep disturbances and nightmares
- Unexplained physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches
PTSD Treatment Options in Yuba City, CA
For residents of Yuba City, California seeking help for CPTSD, several treatment options are available:
- Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Medication management for co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety
Support for First Responders, Medical Practitioners, and Teachers
Professionals in high-stress occupations, such as first responders, medical practitioners, and teachers, are at increased risk of developing CPTSD due to repeated exposure to traumatic events or vicarious trauma. Yuba City organizations should prioritize mental health support and resources for these professionals to prevent and address CPTSD.
Kendra Davis, a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience, specializes in treating CPTSD and related conditions in Yuba City, CA. Her practice, Everyday Counts Therapy Services, offers:
- Personalized treatment plans for CPTSD
- Evidence-based therapies including EMDR, CBT, and DBT
- A compassionate, non-judgmental approach to healing
- Both in-person and virtual therapy options
Located at 1007 Live Oak Blvd Suite B-1, Yuba City, CA 95991, Kendra Davis is committed to helping individuals overcome the challenges of CPTSD and reclaim their lives.By understanding the complexities of CPTSD and seeking appropriate treatment from experienced professionals like Kendra Davis, individuals in Yuba City can work towards healing and improving their quality of life.
