Complex trauma is a type of trauma that occurs repeatedly or over an extended period of time, often in the context of interpersonal relationships, and can have a profound and lasting impact on an individual’s emotional and psychological wellbeing. Complex trauma can include experiences such as ongoing physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, exposure to community violence, and repeated relational disruptions or losses.

Unlike a single traumatic event, complex trauma is characterized by the chronic and pervasive nature of the trauma, and can lead to significant challenges in areas such as emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and self-identity. This is because complex trauma often occurs during critical periods of development, such as childhood, when an individual’s brain and nervous system are still developing.

Some common symptoms of complex trauma include flashbacks, dissociation, hypervigilance, anxiety, depression, shame, self-harm, substance abuse, and difficulties in trusting and forming healthy relationships.

Effective treatment for complex trauma often involves a comprehensive, trauma-informed approach that addresses the individual’s emotional, cognitive, and physiological needs. This can include therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and somatic experiencing. Additionally, creating a safe and supportive environment and building a sense of connection and trust with the therapist or caregiver can be crucial in supporting the individual’s healing and recovery from complex trauma.

©Linda Turner http://parentalalienationpas.com 2023