What is CPTSD? - Complex Trauma

Complex trauma, often called Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is different from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder mainly because of the type and duration of the trauma involved. PTSD usually develops after a single, time-limited event, such as an accident, natural disaster, or assault. In contrast, complex trauma comes from repeated or long-term experiences, often during childhood, such as ongoing abuse, neglect, or living in an unsafe environment (World Health Organization). While both conditions can include symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, and feeling on edge, complex trauma also affects a person’s sense of identity, relationships, and ability to manage emotions. People with CPTSD may struggle with deep feelings of shame, difficulty trusting others, and a sense of being disconnected from themselves, because the trauma shaped how they developed and learned to cope over time.

Why Is Complex Trauma Hard to Treat?

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) can be hard to treat for several reasons. One big reason is that people who have experienced it may not clearly remember what happened to them. This can be because the trauma was overwhelming, happened very early in life, or came from neglect rather than a single event (National Institute of Mental Health).

Sometimes, people believe their symptoms are just part of who they are. They may think, “This is just the way I am” or “Something is wrong with me.” But in many cases, these reactions are actually signs of past trauma. They are learned ways of coping, not permanent parts of the person.

When trauma happens in childhood, it can deeply affect a person’s sense of self. Their identity may feel unclear, confused, or even broken. This can make it hard to understand why they feel or act in certain ways. Trust is also often affected—both trust in others and trust in themselves (Australian Psychological Society).

Many people with childhood trauma notice that their thoughts, feelings, and reactions can pull them in different directions. At times, they may feel strong emotions or urges that don’t seem to make sense. Over time, these reactions can turn into beliefs and “rules for living.” These can feel like part of their personality, even though they began as survival strategies.

The challenge is that these old reactions don’t always help in new situations. A person might respond strongly to something that isn’t actually dangerous. This can lead to embarrassment, stress, and self-doubt. They may wonder why they react differently from other people.

This confusion can slowly lower confidence and self-esteem. It can also make it harder to trust one’s own thoughts and feelings. Many people seek therapy during this difficult period. Some remember their trauma clearly, while others do not. Even without clear memories, they may feel disconnected, unsure of themselves, or not quite “whole.” This uncertainty can make it harder to understand what’s wrong and delay getting help.

How Do You Treat Childhood Trauma?

At Nurturing Growth, we recognise that treating childhood trauma takes time and care. When someone begins therapy, the first step is often to help them understand their past and how it has affected them. This process usually happens in stages.

In the beginning, people often learn simple tools to manage strong emotions. These skills can help them feel more stable in their daily life. For example, they may learn breathing techniques, grounding exercises, or ways to calm their nervous system (Emotional Regulation).

Next, they may learn how trauma affects the brain and body. Understanding this can be very powerful. It helps people see that their reactions are not random—they are connected to how the brain and nervous system developed during stressful experiences (Neuroscience).

Once a person feels safer and more confident, they may begin deeper therapy work. This can include approaches like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or Internal Family Systems (IFS). These therapies help reduce the emotional intensity of painful memories and support new, healthier ways of responding.

In the final stages, therapy focuses on building a stronger and more balanced sense of self. This means helping the person understand who they truly are—based on their values, strengths, and goals, not just their past reactions. Over time, they can begin to feel more whole, confident, and connected to themselves.

If this kind of support feels right for you, consider reaching out to begin your journey toward healing.