The Healing and CPTSD Foundation
The Healing and CPTSD Foundation
Welcome to
The Healing and CPTSD Foundation
The Healing and C-PTSD Foundation is dedicated to creating a secure and nurturing environment for survivors of complex trauma. Our mission is to cultivate connections, offer valuable resources, and facilitate ongoing healing journeys. We aim to reduce the stigma surrounding complex trauma, connect survivors with qualified professionals, and ease the financial burdens associated with therapy. Together, we aim to inspire hope, instill a sense of belonging, and pave the way for a brighter future where every survivor can reclaim their life, their voice, and their sense of self.
Our Mission
Learn about our powerful programs dedicated to advocating for trauma-informed systems and providing financial assistance to complex trauma survivors!
Join us in creating a lasting impact for complex trauma survivors. Your contribution helps provide financial relief through healing grants and drives advocacy for a trauma-informed world.
Get involved and make a meaningful difference by supporting trauma survivors. Explore opportunities to volunteer, advocate, or contribute to our healing grants and advocacy initiatives.
What is C-PTSD?
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a condition resulting from prolonged or repetitive trauma, often occurring in environments where escape feels impossible. Unlike Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which typically stems from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD arises from sustained abuse, neglect, or captivity, where the victim has limited control or ability to escape.
People with C-PTSD may experience a range of symptoms, including difficulties regulating emotions, a negative self-view, and emotional flashbacks. They may also face challenges in maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships, have a distorted perception of their abuser, and struggle with a loss of meaning or purpose. These symptoms can profoundly impact daily life and overall well-being.
If you're familiar with PTSD, which is often associated with single incidents like military combat or serious accidents, understanding C-PTSD's roots in chronic trauma can provide a clearer perspective on its complexities. To learn more about C-PTSD and its symptoms, click here.
How C-PTSD affects survivors?
C-PTSD impacts survivors on multiple levels, influencing their emotional well-being, relationships, and self-perception. Common symptoms of C-PTSD include:
-
Emotional Dysregulation: Intense emotions, such as overwhelming sadness, anger, or feelings of numbness, that can be challenging to control.
-
Negative Self-Perception: Persistent feelings of shame, guilt, or worthlessness, leading to low self-esteem and a distorted sense of identity.
-
Difficulty with Relationships: Struggles with trust, boundaries, and intimacy, often as a result of trauma impacting interpersonal relationships.
-
Intrusive Memories and Flashbacks: Reliving traumatic events through vivid memories or flashbacks, leading to heightened stress and anxiety.
-
Hypervigilance: Constantly feeling “on edge” or alert to potential threats, even in safe environments.
These symptoms can profoundly affect a survivor's daily life, limiting their ability to form connections, pursue goals, and feel secure.
Why C-PTSD Recognition Matters
Currently, C-PTSD is not formally recognized in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), which is widely used by mental health professionals for diagnosis and treatment. Recognition in the DSM would provide:
-
Validation for Survivors: Formal acknowledgment of C-PTSD validates the unique experiences of those affected, helping to reduce stigma and misunderstanding around complex trauma.
-
Access to Specialized Care: A recognized diagnosis allows survivors to access providers who understand the distinct nature of C-PTSD, leading to more tailored and effective treatments.
-
Improved Insurance Coverage: Many insurance providers rely on DSM classifications for coverage decisions. DSM recognition would make it easier for survivors to access trauma-specific therapies without facing financial barriers.
Our Advocacy for C-PTSD Recognition
At the Healing and C-PTSD Foundation, we are committed to advocating for C-PTSD’s formal inclusion in the DSM. This recognition would validate survivors' experiences, increase access to appropriate treatments, and foster a better understanding of complex trauma. Through our petition, awareness campaigns, and collaboration with mental health professionals, we are working to ensure that C-PTSD is recognized as a unique condition, deserving of specialized support.