What Is Complex PTSD? Complex PTSD is a type of trauma often rooted in childhood experiences, including various forms of abuse or neglect. This trauma, occurring during critical developmental years, can significantly shape a person's personality, emotional state, and even brain structure. It typically results in a fractured sense of self, with various defensive and protective parts or subpersonalities. Those suffering from it may spend years trying to heal these fractures. Unlike PTSD, Complex P

What is Complex Trauma? Complex trauma, or C-PTSD, comes from prolonged, repeated exposure to traumatic events. This isn’t just a one-time incident; it’s ongoing abuse, neglect, or violence, often happening in childhood but can occur at any age. Key Aspects of Complex Trauma: Prolonged Exposure: This involves ongoing trauma, like physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, chronic neglect, or domestic violence. Interpersonal Nature: The trauma is usually inflicted by someone close, like a caregiver or

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Complex trauma doesn’t just leave a psychological imprint — it reshapes the architecture and functioning of the brain. Research consistently shows three key regions are most impacted: The Amygdala Often becomes hyper-reactive, scanning constantly for threat. In CPTSD, this can look like chronic hypervigilance, startle responses, emotional overwhelm, and difficulty distinguishing present cues from past danger. The Hippocampus Can become underactive or structurally altered after long-term trauma.