Why C-PTSD is AKA 'Relational Trauma'

When an individual is in a dangerous environment for a prolonged period of time without the means to protect themselves, they develop ways to cope that were helpful, even life saving at the time, that can stick with them even after the danger has passed. Often it's only in an environment of safety do those coping skills start to hurt more than help. In the same way, when individuals are in an emotionally hostile situation for a prolonged period without the means to protect themselves, they can develop unhelpful ways to cope that often follow them into healthy relationships. C-PTSD is a newly recognized diagnosis to explain some of the symptoms that describe how a person is living in 'interpersonal fight or flight'. This is an especially unrecognized form of trauma because unlike the triggers of environmental lack of safety which may be easier to avoid and identify, things like tone of voice, perceived rejection ect ect can lead to physiological panic and distorted view of self and the world.

Another reason CPTSD is a challenge is that a protective factor against trauma is our relationships and connections with others. If your trauma itself is relational, what an added challenge to build healthy close relationships!

Know you are not alone and that through building new healthy coping skills such as clear view of self, boundary setting, identifying emotional abuse tactics and building trust with your protective parts, you can regain a sense of safety within your relationships and life.

Some great adjunct therapies in addition to therapy are listed below to support you on your journey:

Yin Yoga

Tai Chi

Therapist/Mental Health Professional led support groups

DBT Skill Building