Many of us have heard of the term post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly known as PTSD. In short, it’s a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences a traumatic event. These experiences can leave deep psychological scars, making it challenging to feel safe even long after the event has passed. The symptoms of PTSD and complex PTSD severely disrupt the lives of many who struggle with it and often include:
- Intrusive Memories
- Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood
- Hyperarousal and Reactivity
- Emotional and Physical Distress
A Look Into Complex PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder is linked to major traumatic events such as combat, natural disasters, assaults, and serious accidents. In many cases, these experiences are singular. There’s another form of PTSD called complex PTSD (C-PTSD). Unlike PTSD, which typically arises from a specific traumatic event, C-PTSD develops as a result of prolonged or repeated trauma. The symptoms of C-PTSD overlap with PTSD but can also include challenges like persistent feelings of shame and struggles with self-identity. The prolonged nature of the trauma adds another layer.
An Example of Complex PTSD
Meet Jessica: Jessica’s first experience of neglect began with her mother’s postpartum depression and her dad’s absence. As a baby, her cries often went unanswered, and as she grew, there was extreme disconnection from her family. At school, her natural shyness made her an easy target for bullying. Classmates made fun of her for being quiet, and Jessica felt increasingly alienated as the years went on. Now, as an adult, Jessica struggles with C-PTSD. She finds it hard to trust others and avoids social situations like the plague. Memories of abandonment linger, making it hard for her to feel safe in relationships. During the few romantic relationships Jessica has been involved in, she’s found it hard to regulate her emotions, and her ex-partners have broken up with her for it.
A Treatment for Complex PTSD
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) helps those with PTSD, including C-PTSD, by targeting the root of trauma and reprocessing it in a safe, supportive environment. The bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, mimics the mechanisms of REM sleep, which prompts the brain to reprocess painful memories. Over the course of EMDR sessions, these traumatic memories become less emotionally charged. For those with C-PTSD, EMDR’s structured approach systematically addresses the many layers of trauma caused by prolonged traumatic events, gradually untangling complex emotional responses and rebuilding a sense of control.
Jessica’s Healing EMDR Journey
Jessica’s EMDR journey helped her heal from the many years of neglect and isolation she experienced growing up. Little by little, each session reprocessed painful memories of feeling unseen and unworthy, replacing them with a new sense of self-worth and safety. Today, Jessica is in a loving relationship with a partner who values and accepts her. When old fears of abandonment surface, she uses the tools EMDR gave her to stay present and regulate her emotions.
EMDR Can Help You Heal, Too
At Seasons of Strength, we believe in the resilience within each person. EMDR has helped many of our clients move through their traumatic past and reclaim their lives, and it can help you, too. Whether you’re carrying the weight of a single traumatic event or years of layered struggles, we’re here to support you. You don’t have to face this alone—healing is possible, and we’ll walk with you every step of the way. Reach out today to learn more.
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