What Are the Characteristics of Complex PTSD? Understanding Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) To better understand Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), it’s important to first grasp the core aspects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Both conditions share many symptoms, but C-PTSD is distinct in its complexity and long-term impacts. What is PTSD? PTSD occurs when an individual is exposed—either directly or indirectly—to a traumatic event that involves actual or perceived threats to life. This exposure may lead to the following symptoms persisting for at least 30 days , significantly impairing daily life: Re-experiencing the trauma: Nightmares, flashbacks, and intrusive memories. Avoidance: Actively avoiding reminders, places, or people connected to the trauma. Negative thoughts and feelings: Difficulty remembering the trauma, persistent negative beliefs, and emotional numbness. Hyperarousal and reactivity: Heightened alertness, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. If these symptoms p...

How to Support Someone Who Is Grieving: What Helps and What Hurts "Grief can be like driving down a road in the dark." When someone you care about is facing profound loss or grief, it can feel impossible to know what to say or do. You may wonder: What if I say the wrong thing? Will I make it worse? Should I bring it up or avoid it entirely? Grief can be like driving down a road in the dark —sometimes, the only thing visible are the lines on the road, guiding you forward one step at a time. Without focusing on what you can see, you might avoid driving in the dark altogether—just as many avoid engaging with someone in crisis out of fear of saying the wrong thing. Common Responses That May Do More Harm Than Good Despite the best intentions, some common phrases can leave grieving individuals feeling isolated, invalidated, or pressured to "move on" too quickly. Understanding what not to say can make all the difference in offering meaningful support. What NOT to Say to S...