CPTSD in TEENAGERS

Intro In teenagers, CPTSD masking refers to hiding the symptoms of CPTSD to avoid negative reactions or fit in with peers and family. This can involve suppressing feelings, altering behavior, or changing speech to appear normal, even when experiencing intense emotional distress. Masking can be a way for teens to cope with the shame and stigma associated with CPTSD, but it's important to recognize that it can also worsen their symptoms and interfere with their ability to receive support. Teens may mask CPTSD symptoms to avoid judgment, maintain relationships, or feel a sense of control over their experiences. They might fear that expressing their true feelings will lead to rejection, ridicule, or a lack of understanding from peers and family. 1. Signs of masking: Masking can manifest in various ways, including: Changing their behavior to fit in with a group or situation, Hiding their true feelings or thoughts Feeling anxious or stressed about being "found out", Struggling with self-esteem and confidence, Avoiding talking about the trauma Developing unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use or risky behaviors, 2. Impact of masking: 1. Worsening symptoms: Suppressing emotions can exacerbate PTSD symptoms like anxiety, depression, and irritability. Interfering with treatment: Masking makes it harder for teens to seek help and receive appropriate support. Isolation: Hiding feelings can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection from others. 3. complex trauma that might look like ADHD due outbursts, tantrums/meltdowns, low frustrations tolerance, destroying things and oppositional behaviours, C-PTSD Masking can involve suppressing behaviour, emotions, remain silent, sensory responses and passion-focused interests that might set them apart, higher risks of being a victim of bullying & assault. When children are trapped in stressful or traumatic situations and cannot get away from them, their brain learns to escapes mentally by switching off of destroyings.