Signs of Complex PTSD You’re Overlooking and How to Address Them
- D.Bhatta, MA
- 18 hours ago
- 4 min read
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) often hides in plain sight. While many recognize the classic symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks or nightmares, there are deeper, less obvious signs that can quietly disrupt lives. These overlooked symptoms can make healing feel out of reach and relationships difficult to maintain. Understanding these signs is crucial for anyone struggling with trauma or supporting someone who is.
This post explores some of the lesser-known symptoms of Complex PTSD, including emotional dysregulation, difficulty in relationships, and chronic feelings of emptiness. Through real-life examples and practical advice, you’ll learn how to recognize these signs and take steps toward healing.
Emotional Dysregulation: The Hidden Storm
One of the most challenging symptoms of Complex PTSD is emotional dysregulation. This means experiencing intense emotions that feel overwhelming or out of control. People with C-PTSD might find themselves swinging between anger, sadness, anxiety, or numbness without a clear trigger.
What Emotional Dysregulation Looks Like
Sudden outbursts of anger or crying
Feeling numb or disconnected from emotions
Difficulty calming down after stress
Overreacting to minor frustrations
Case Study: Sarah’s Story
Sarah, a 34-year-old teacher, often found herself snapping at colleagues or students over small mistakes. She felt guilty afterward but couldn’t stop the emotional flood. She described feeling like a volcano ready to erupt, yet moments later, she would feel empty and detached. Sarah’s emotional swings made her question her own stability and strained her relationships at work and home.
How to Recognize and Manage Emotional Dysregulation
Track your emotions: Keep a journal to note when emotions spike and what might have triggered them.
Practice grounding techniques: Deep breathing, mindfulness, or focusing on physical sensations can help calm intense feelings.
Seek therapy: Therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) specialize in teaching emotional regulation skills.
Build a support system: Trusted friends or support groups can provide understanding and help you feel less isolated.
Difficulty in Relationships: The Invisible Barrier
Complex PTSD often damages the ability to form and maintain healthy relationships. Trauma can create deep mistrust, fear of abandonment, or difficulty expressing needs and boundaries.
Signs You Might Be Struggling in Relationships
Avoiding close connections or pushing people away
Feeling misunderstood or disconnected even with loved ones
Difficulty trusting others or fearing rejection
Repeating unhealthy relationship patterns
Personal Reflection: Mark’s Experience
Mark, a 28-year-old graphic designer, noticed he kept ending relationships abruptly. He feared getting too close because he worried people would leave him or hurt him. Even when he wanted intimacy, he felt a wall between himself and others. Mark’s therapist helped him understand that his trauma shaped these fears and taught him ways to build trust gradually.
Tips for Improving Relationships with C-PTSD
Communicate openly: Share your feelings and fears with trusted people when you feel safe.
Set small goals: Practice vulnerability in low-risk situations before deeper connections.
Learn about attachment styles: Understanding your patterns can help you break negative cycles.
Consider couples or group therapy: These settings provide safe spaces to explore relationship challenges.
Additional Resources for Understanding Grief
To deepen your understanding and find more support, explore these related articles from our blog:
Chronic Feelings of Emptiness: The Quiet Void
Many people with Complex PTSD describe a persistent sense of emptiness or numbness. This feeling can be confusing and isolating because it’s invisible to others and hard to explain.
What Chronic Emptiness Feels Like
A hollow or numb sensation inside
Lack of motivation or interest in activities
Feeling disconnected from yourself or the world
Difficulty experiencing joy or satisfaction
Case Example: Lisa’s Journey
Lisa, a 40-year-old nurse, struggled with a constant emptiness that made her question her purpose. Despite a busy life and supportive family, she felt like she was just going through the motions. Therapy helped Lisa connect her emptiness to unresolved trauma and develop self-compassion and new ways to find meaning.
Ways to Address Chronic Emptiness
Engage in creative activities: Art, music, or writing can help express feelings that are hard to put into words.
Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness instead of judgment.
Build routines: Small daily habits can create a sense of stability and purpose.
Explore trauma-focused therapy: Approaches like EMDR or somatic experiencing can help process deep wounds.
Recognizing Complex PTSD in Yourself or Others
Identifying these overlooked signs can be the first step toward healing. If you notice emotional dysregulation, relationship struggles, or chronic emptiness in yourself or someone you care about, consider these actions:
Educate yourself: Learn more about Complex PTSD and its symptoms.
Reach out for professional help: A mental health professional can provide diagnosis and tailored treatment.
Connect with support groups: Sharing experiences with others who understand can reduce isolation.
Practice patience: Healing is a gradual process that requires time and self-care.
Complex PTSD affects many people in ways that are not always visible. By recognizing the subtle signs like emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, and chronic emptiness, you can better understand your experience or support someone else. Healing is possible with awareness, compassion, and the right tools.
