PTSD VS CPTSD

Intro PTSD typically results from a single traumatic event, while CPTSD is associated with chronic, prolonged, or repetitive trauma, often starting in childhood. CPTSD also includes additional symptom clusters related to emotional dysregulation, negative self-beliefs, and interpersonal difficulties, extremely tantrums/meltdowns, Severe Panic Disorder(Frequent, Unexpected Panic Attacks), very-severe sensory modification disorder, C-PTSD Maskings, alot of fears for betrayal, paranoia, and psychosis, physical health issues, prolonged feelings of terror, worthlessness, helplessness, distortions in identity or sense of self, and hypervigilance, and also low self-esteems, which are not part of the standard PTSD diagnosis. Key Differences: Trauma Type: PTSD is often linked to a single, acute traumatic event, like a car accident or assault, while CPTSD is typically caused by prolonged, repetitive, or multiple traumas, such as abuse or neglect. PTSD symptoms usually emerge soon after a traumatic event, whereas CPTSD symptoms may develop gradually over time as a result of ongoing exposure to trauma. Additional Symptoms: CPTSD includes additional symptoms beyond those of PTSD, including difficulties with emotional regulation, negative self-perceptions, and interpersonal problems. The ICD-11 classification system recognizes CPTSD as a distinct disorder with specific diagnostic criteria, separate from PTSD. The DSM-5 does not have CPTSD as a separate diagnosis but does include a sub-type of PTSD called dissociative PTSD that may encompass some CPTSD symptoms. Examples: A person who experiences a single traumatic event like a car accident may develop PTSD. A person who experiences ongoing emotional and physical abuse over a period of years may develop CPTSD. In essence: While both PTSD and CPTSD can cause significant distress, CPTSD is often associated with a more complex and enduring impact due to the chronic nature of the trauma and the additional symptom clusters it involves.