Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)
Understanding complex trauma
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) is a way of describing the lasting impact that repeated or prolonged difficult experiences can have on a person's sense of safety, emotions, relationships and self-worth. It is recognised by the World Health Organization in the ICD-11 as a distinct diagnosis, related to but different from PTSD.
This module is educational. It is designed to help you understand complex trauma in plain English, notice patterns you might recognise in yourself, and explore some gentle, practical tools. It is not a diagnostic tool, a substitute for therapy, or a checklist to self-diagnose from — only a qualified professional (such as a GP, psychiatrist or trauma-informed therapist) can assess or diagnose C-PTSD, PTSD, or any other condition.
You may recognise a great deal of what follows, some of it, or none at all — and any of those is a completely valid response. There is no correct way to relate to this material, and you are welcome to go at whatever pace feels manageable, including not at all today.
- 1UnderstandEducation and psychoeducation
- 2RecognisePatterns, parts, triggers and responses
- 3ReflectGuided questions and journaling
- 4PracticeInteractive exercises and practical skills
- 5IntegrateApplying it to everyday life
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Where members often go next from here.
This module offers education and gentle self-reflection tools — it cannot assess, diagnose or treat C-PTSD or any other condition. If any of this content brings up more than feels manageable, please be gentle with yourself and consider reaching out to a GP, a trauma-informed therapist, or a crisis service. Our Crisis Resources page is always here if you need it. Crisis Resources
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