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Complex PTSD (CPTSD)

PTSD with disturbances in self-organization after prolonged trauma

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Complex PTSD (CPTSD)?

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is recognized in ICD-11 as a distinct diagnosis. It includes the three core PTSD clusters (re-experiencing, avoidance, hypervigilance) plus three disturbances in self-organization: affect dysregulation, negative self-concept, and interpersonal difficulties.

It is most often associated with prolonged, repeated, or developmentally early trauma, such as childhood abuse, captivity, prolonged interpersonal violence, or torture. Comorbidity with depression, anxiety, dissociation, somatic symptoms, and substance use is common.

Treatment follows a phase-based approach: stabilization and skills (emotion regulation, relational safety), processing of traumatic memories with trauma-focused therapies (TF-CBT, EMDR, narrative exposure), and reintegration. Pharmacotherapy targets specific symptoms but is adjunctive to psychotherapy.

Symptoms

Re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal as in PTSD
Severe affect dysregulation and emotional flooding
Persistent negative self-concept and shame
Difficulties in relationships and trust
Frequent dissociation and somatic symptoms

Risk Factors

Prolonged or repeated childhood abuse
Captivity, torture, prolonged domestic violence
Refugee experiences and ongoing threat
Limited social support and disrupted attachment

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent functional impairment from trauma symptoms
  • Suicidality, self-harm, severe dissociation (urgent)
  • Difficulty engaging in trauma-focused therapy
  • Co-occurring depression, anxiety, or substance use
  • When seeking specialist trauma care

Treatment Methods

01
Phase-based treatment: stabilization, processing, integration
02
Skills training in emotion regulation and relational safety
03
Trauma-focused psychotherapy (TF-CBT, EMDR, narrative exposure)
04
Adjunctive pharmacotherapy for depression, sleep, hyperarousal
05
Treatment of comorbid substance use
06
Multidisciplinary care including social support
07
Long-term therapeutic relationship and continuity

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.