What is complex ptsd?

Complex PTSD: Complex PTSD is a proposed diagnosis to be added to the medical diagnostic system to cover individuals who have had chronic trauma and whose resulting symptoms are different or in addition to typical PTSD. For example chronic trauma may cause more damage to self-concept, and it may predispose people to more complex and challenging issues with anxiety etc. Good question!

Complex PTSD is: a term offered to identify individuals with PTSD who have experienced prolonged and severs trauma which can impact a person's self-concept and the ways they adapt to stress. Dr. Herman at Harvard suggests this distinction and likelihood of special treatment considerations. Best regards.

Symptom inquiry: The doctor should inquire if the patient has been in a situation where the patient believes loss of life or catastrophic injury was imminent, and with no means of escape. Symptoms from these experiences include, hypervigilance, sleep loss, nightmares, reliving the trauma, social withdrawal, anhedonia, temper outbursts, emotional withdrawal, feelings of unfinished business, and adrenalin seeking.