Understanding the Difference Between PTSD and CPTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) are both responses to trauma, but they have distinct causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Understanding these differences can help those affected by trauma seek the right support and feel validated in their experiences.

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a single traumatic event, such as:

• A car accident

• Natural disaster

• Assault

• Combat exposure

• A sudden loss of a loved one

Symptoms of PTSD fall into four main categories:

1. Intrusive Symptoms – Flashbacks, nightmares, or distressing memories of the event.

2. Avoidance – Avoiding reminders of the trauma, including places, people, or conversations.

3. Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood – Feelings of guilt, shame, emotional numbness, or difficulty remembering aspects of the trauma.

4. Hyperarousal – Increased anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and being easily startled.

PTSD can be treated through therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes that help manage triggers and symptoms.

What is CPTSD?

Complex PTSD (CPTSD) develops from prolonged or repeated trauma, often occurring in childhood or over an extended period of time. Examples include:

• Childhood abuse or neglect

• Domestic violence

• Human trafficking or prolonged captivity

• Chronic emotional abuse or manipulation

CPTSD includes all the symptoms of PTSD but also involves additional challenges:

1. Emotional Dysregulation – Intense emotions, difficulty managing anger, sadness, or fear.

2. Negative Self-Perception – Deep-seated feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or shame.

3. Relationship Difficulties – Trouble trusting others, fear of abandonment, or patterns of unhealthy relationships.

4. Dissociation – Feeling disconnected from oneself or reality as a coping mechanism.

Key Differences Between PTSD and CPTSD

Feature	PTSD	CPTSD
Cause	Single traumatic event	Prolonged or repeated trauma
Symptoms	Flashbacks, avoidance, hyperarousal	PTSD symptoms + emotional dysregulation, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties
Emotional Impact	Fear and anxiety-based	Deep-rooted shame and emotional instability
Relationships	Can struggle with trust	Chronic difficulties in relationships

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

Many people with CPTSD go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with PTSD, depression, or borderline personality disorder. Recognizing the unique challenges of CPTSD ensures that individuals receive the right treatment, such as trauma-focused therapy, somatic healing approaches, and support for emotional regulation.

Seeking Help

If you or someone you love is struggling with PTSD or CPTSD, reaching out to a trauma-informed therapist can be life-changing. Healing is possible, and understanding your experiences is the first step toward recovery.

Written by: Mackenzie Kerber, MA, LPCC