Part Two-Understanding Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD)
CPTSD does not develop as a result of one’s doing. The emotional and psychological pain from the traumatic experiences can make you believe that you did something wrong that warranted your suffering. That painful past is not your fault. The manifestation of trauma is not a sign of personal weakness; you are not broken. As hard as it feels right now, as impossible as it feels to get better, there is hope for your healing.
Imagining a life beyond the trauma can seem unrealistic because that’s all you’ve known for a very long time. You fight every day to keep your head above water so that you don’t drown and that struggle can become a familiar place to stay. The beauty of therapy and treatment is that you have the opportunity to unlearn harmful beliefs, behaviors and coping mechanisms and adopt better ones that help you live a calmer and happier life.
Let me tell you what’s possible in recovery:
● Healing your wounded inner child and allowing them to experience a life they’ve only dreamed about.
● Building your capacity to be loving, compassionate and forgiving with yourself through every season of life.
● Building a solid and healthy belief system and a foundation within yourself that is safe, stable and consistent.
● Cultivating stronger, healthier and long-lasting relationships where you show up fully and you are loved for who you are.
● Thriving in life instead of merely surviving through it.
CPTSD is a condition that requires you to work closely with your therapist or mental health provider so that you can better manage your symptoms. You need to be under proper guidance because as the word suggests in CPTSD….it is complex trauma that should be professionally looked into.
Your road to recovery starts here:
● Seek professional help: Working with a mental health professional who specializes in treating CPTSD is crucial in the recovery process. I, your therapist, will provide a safe and supportive environment to process traumatic experiences and work through symptoms.
● Educate yourself: Understanding CPTSD and how it affects the mind and body can help you better understand your experiences and find effective strategies for coping. Information is power.
● Build a support system: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who can provide a sense of security and help you feel less isolated. Join a support group with others who have experienced similar traumas so that you can learn from their experiences.
● Engage in self-care: Take good care of your physical and emotional well-being. This can include regular exercise, a balanced diet and adequate sleep. Self-care nurtures you and helps you manage your symptoms better.
● Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga, can help reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall well-being. Check this website out for mindfulness activities.
● Challenge negative beliefs: CPTSD can result in negative self-perceptions and beliefs about oneself. Challenging and reframing these beliefs through therapy or self-reflection can help improve self-esteem and overall well-being.
● Set achievable goals: Setting and working towards achievable goals can help provide a sense of accomplishment and increase self-confidence.
Remember that recovery from CPTSD is a journey, not a destination. Dealing with CPTSD is a valid experience that deserves support and understanding. You are strong and brave for facing the challenges of CPTSD. Your experiences have shaped who you are and you should be proud of your resilience. With the right support, treatment and resources - it is possible to move closer toward recovery that despite the impact that CPTSD has had on your life. You are not alone and there is hope for healing and growth. You deserve to be happy and have a fulfilling life. Book your free consultation session with me today.
