Their behaviour may be aggressive in response, or they may take flight or simply freeze. They may also appear highly reactive and respond to threat even if it is not present. In people with complex trauma, research suggests that repeated exposure to traumatic events early in development not only inhibits the neural system’s ability to return to normal but changes the system to appear like one that is always anticipating or responding to trauma.įor this reason, people who have experienced complex trauma may display symptoms including poor concentration, poor attention and poor decision-making and judgement. In post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the neurochemical responses outlive the original threat and inhibit the system’s ability to return to normal. Normally, following the perception of threat or danger, the body’s neurochemistry returns back to normal. These, in turn, influence thinking and behaviour. The biological responses involve a cascade of interdependent neurochemical changes in different parts of the brain and body. People react to threat or danger with a system comprised of biological, cognitive and behavioural responses. The repeated experience of trauma early in development has been termed complex trauma. This can result in more crying and a cycle of crying and abuse may follow. An example is when a baby who cries to convey its needs or distress is physically assaulted, instead of given food or comfort. Not responding to a baby or not having the skills to do so, for instance, means the baby’s developmental needs may not be met.Ĭomplex trauma can also come in the form of abuse. Trauma early in childhood can result from a range of things such as living in domestically violent situations, or being raised in situations where the parent’s needs – such as drug use or alcohol abuse – influence their ability to provide for their child’s needs.Ĭomplex trauma may come in the form of neglect. More recently, research has shown that experiencing trauma early in childhood has a significant impact on the development of the brain and the way it works. We’ve known this for some time but particularly since the early 1970s after observing and studying the effects of war on American servicemen in Vietnam. Medicine such as antidepressants may still be recommended if psychotherapy is not possible or you feel unsafe.Experiencing trauma has significant implications for mental health. The final stage is to begin to use these skills and techniques to develop better relationships. Your therapist will discuss with you the most suitable treatment approach and will monitor its effectiveness.įind out more about talking therapies 3. These treatments may help you to control any distressing thoughts. eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR).With time, you can reduce feelings of anxiety and learn to cope with daily life. The aim is to make the past seem less frightening and reduce the amount of flashbacks you experience. 'Grounding' techniques may help you separate an abusive or traumatic past from the present. They'll help you to control feelings of distrust and lose the feeling of being 'disconnected' from friends and family. One of the first steps in treating complex PTSD may involve talking with a therapist. Treatment from a therapist may be given in the 3 following stages. It may take some time, but a trusting relationship with a therapist will help treat complex PTSD. It's important to try and develop some feelings of trust. If possible, people with complex PTSD are recommended to slowly start doing regular activities, such as: One of the key symptoms of complex PTSD is losing trust in people.
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