According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 70% of people will experience some type of trauma in their lives. Ideally, most people who go through a traumatic event will only have to deal with it once. 

Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. 

Complex trauma refers to repeated or chronic traumatic experiences. It typically occurs in childhood as a result of abuse or neglect, but can happen later in life if you’re in an abusive relationship or dangerous lifestyle. 

Things like a violent community, hostile workplace, or even medical issues can cause complex trauma. Therefore, it’s important to understand what it looks like, how it can impact your life, and how to treat it. 

What Are the Symptoms of Complex Trauma?

Some of the common symptoms of complex trauma are similar to those of someone who might have once experienced trauma. Feelings of guilt and shame, low self-esteem, nightmares and negative memories, and emotional regulation problems can all be the result of either type of trauma. 

There are, however, more nuanced symptoms associated with complex trauma that are important to look out for. Complex trauma can cause someone to dissociate from reality as a defense mechanism. Someone who has experienced complex trauma might also have difficulties with relationships. It can be hard to trust people or open up and show vulnerability. It’s also not uncommon for those who have experienced complex trauma to engage in self-destructive behaviors, including self-harm and substance abuse.

How Is Complex Trauma Diagnosed? 

Again, complex trauma often involves repeated or chronic events. Acute trauma tends to be the result of something that happens once. But that’s not the only difference a medical professional can use in reaching the proper diagnosis. 

Because complex trauma is often ongoing, it leaves very little time for any kind of recovery. So the symptoms tend to be more prominent and long-lasting than they might with acute trauma. 

The symptoms can also lead to a correct diagnosis. As suggested above, it’s not uncommon for people with complex trauma to dissociate from reality. They might also think they’re somehow different from other people and have a hard time relating. When you share that information with a doctor or mental health professional, they can take a closer look at your history to determine if you’re dealing with complex trauma. Doing so will give both of you a clearer path toward healing and recovery. 

How Is It Treated?

The treatment for complex trauma is often very similar to any other type of trauma recovery. Usually, a combination of medication and therapy can help. There are different types of therapy specifically designed to help with trauma, but it’s important to work with a therapist who will nurture your individual needs. 

Therapy can help you identify the source of the trauma. This is especially important if your complex trauma is the result of childhood abuse or neglect. While it’s not always an easy road to go down, it’s an essential first step in the healing process. Once you know the root cause of your complex trauma, you and your therapist can work on strategies to help you overcome it.

A therapist can also help you prioritize self-care practices. Techniques like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and meditation can all help to reduce stress, keep you grounded in the present, and weaken any negative and unwanted thoughts. 

Complex trauma can feel overwhelming. Depending on how long you’ve been dealing with it, it might even feel like your whole identity. 

It doesn’t have to. 

If you’re ready to break free from the confines of your traumatic experiences, I can help. Don’t hesitate to contact me for a consultation for trauma therapy soon and start the next chapter of your life feeling empowered.