PTSD & CPTSD

Both PTSD, (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and CPTSD, (Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) are psychological and physical conditions that can take many forms.

The difference between PTSD and CPTSD is that PTSD often occurs after a single traumatic event, while CPTSD is associated with repeated trauma.

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What are common causes PTSD & CPTSD?

 

Military Combat

Domestic Violence

Sexual Abuse or Assault

Serious Accidents

Any situation which a person finds stressful

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During a stressful event it is natural for your body to go into “fight or flight” mode. This is a survival mechanism passed down from our ancient ancestors and is an automatic  reaction to fear, stress or danger. Our bodies make dramatic physical changes such as increasing adrenalin to give you a burst of energy to either "fight or flight." Once the danger has passed your body can cease this reaction and return to normal however, some people may still respond strongly long after the danger has passed.

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The symptoms may include the following:

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Reliving a traumatic experience through dreams or flashbacks

Difficulty in sleeping

Feelings of isolation

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How can counselling help me?

Counselling gives the opportunity to discuss stressful experiences at the root of a person's PTSD/CPTSD and help them make sense of their feelings. It can introduce coping skills to help manage those feelings and minimise symptoms.  It is important to know that PTSD & CPTSD are treatable conditions, even when it develops many years after a traumatic event.

Everyone's experience and reaction to therapy is different, so we tailor a plan which will be specific and personable to each client.

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