17 Symptoms of Complex PTSD: What You Need to Know

Living with Complex PTSD can feel like being trapped in a cycle of pain, fear, and emotional exhaustion. Every day may feel like a battle against memories, emotions, and thoughts that won’t let go. If you or someone you love is struggling, know that healing is possible.

At Relevance Recovery, we understand what you’re going through, and we want you to know that you are not alone. What are the 17 symptoms of complex PTSD? Recognizing them is the first step to reclaiming your life. We provide expert care, therapy, and support to help you break free from the grip of trauma and move toward a healthier, happier future.

What is Complex PTSD?

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) develops after long-term exposure to trauma, such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, or repeated traumatic experiences. Unlike PTSD, which typically stems from a single event, C-PTSD affects multiple aspects of life, your emotions, relationships, self-esteem, and even physical health. Complex PTSD affects approximately 1–8% of the general population and up to 50% of individuals in mental health facilities.

Those who experience prolonged trauma often feel trapped, helpless, and disconnected from the world around them. What are the 17 symptoms of complex PTSD? Understanding these symptoms can help individuals recognize the impact of their trauma and take the first step toward recovery.

What Are the 17 Symptoms of Complex PTSD?

C-PTSD impacts your mind, body, and emotions. In a U.S. sample of 1,839 adults, 3.8% were diagnosed with Complex PTSD, while 3.4% had PTSD, indicating a combined prevalence of 7.2%.  Below are the 17 symptoms of Complex PTSD that many individuals experience:

Emotional & Psychological Symptoms

1. Persistent sadness or depression – Feeling hopeless and emotionally drained.
2. Difficulty regulating emotions – Intense mood swings or emotional outbursts.
3. Chronic anxiety – Constant fear, nervousness, or worry.
4. Guilt or shame – A deep sense of unworthiness or self-blame.
5. Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts – Reliving trauma through unwanted memories.
6. Dissociation – Feeling detached from yourself or reality.
7. Hypervigilance – Always feeling on edge or in danger.

Behavioral Symptoms

1. Avoidance – Staying away from people, places, or situations that remind you of trauma.
2. Self-isolation – Withdrawing from friends and family.
3. Self-destructive behaviors – Engaging in substance abuse, reckless activities, or self-harm.
4. Difficulty trusting others – Struggling to build meaningful relationships.
5. Irritability or aggression – Experiencing sudden outbursts of anger or frustration.

Cognitive & Physical Symptoms

1. Negative self-perception – Feeling broken, unworthy, or unlovable.
2. Difficulty concentrating – Trouble focusing on tasks or conversations.
3. Sleep disturbances – Insomnia, nightmares, or restless sleep.
4. Chronic fatigue – Feeling exhausted despite resting.
5. Physical symptoms – Unexplained headaches, digestive issues, or muscle tension.

If you recognize what are the 17 symptoms of complex PTSD in yourself or a loved one, it’s time to seek help. Healing starts with the right support, and Relevance Recovery is here to guide you.

How Relevance Recovery Can Help

We know that dealing with C-PTSD is challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Relevance Recovery, we provide evidence-based treatments to help you regain control of your life. Here’s how we can support your healing journey:

1. Trauma-Focused Therapy

Our licensed therapists specialize in treating C-PTSD using proven methods like:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps challenge and change negative thought patterns.
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – Reduces the emotional impact of traumatic memories.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional regulation and coping strategies.

2. Holistic Healing Approaches

C-PTSD affects both the mind and body, which is why we offer:

• Mindfulness & Meditation – Helps ground you in the present moment.
• Yoga & Breathwork – Encourages relaxation and emotional balance.
• Nutritional Support – A healthy diet can improve mental well-being.

3. Medication Management

For those who need additional support, our medical team offers:

• Non-addictive medications to manage anxiety and depression.
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.

4. Support Groups & Community Healing

C-PTSD can feel isolating, but healing is easier with support. We offer:

• Group therapy – Connect with others who understand your struggles.
• Family counseling – Helps rebuild trust and improve relationships.
• Safe, judgment-free spaces – You deserve to be heard and supported.

Taking the First Step Toward Healing

Recovering from what are the 17 symptoms of complex PTSD is not easy, but with the right treatment and support, you can regain control over your life. The effects of trauma do not have to define you. You deserve peace, joy, and the ability to move forward without fear.

At Relevance Recovery, we are committed to helping you heal. Our team provides compassionate, personalized care designed to support every step of your journey. If you or a loved one is struggling with C-PTSD, don’t wait, reach out to us today.

FAQs

1. What are the 17 symptoms of complex PTSD?

The 17 symptoms of complex PTSD include persistent sadness, difficulty regulating emotions, chronic anxiety, guilt, flashbacks, dissociation, hypervigilance, avoidance, self-isolation, self-destructive behaviors, trust issues, irritability, negative self-perception, concentration issues, sleep disturbances, chronic fatigue, and physical symptoms like headaches or muscle tension.

2. What are the 17 causes of PTSD?

PTSD can be caused by prolonged trauma such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, war, serious accidents, natural disasters, losing a loved one, neglect, medical trauma, repeated exposure to violence, kidnapping, forced displacement, human trafficking, prolonged bullying, workplace trauma, and witnessing traumatic events. The severity of PTSD depends on individual experiences and coping mechanisms.

3. What are the 20 symptoms of PTSD?

PTSD symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, emotional numbness, avoidance, hypervigilance, exaggerated startle response, mood swings, guilt, shame, intrusive thoughts, difficulty sleeping, anger outbursts, trust issues, trouble concentrating, loss of interest, detachment, feeling hopeless, dissociation, and chronic fatigue. These symptoms can impact daily life and relationships significantly.

4. What are the 17 symptoms of PTSD in veterans?

Veterans with PTSD often experience flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, avoidance of reminders, intrusive thoughts, guilt, difficulty sleeping, aggression, trust issues, heightened startle response, depression, dissociation, self-isolation, memory issues, chronic fatigue, and self-destructive behaviors. PTSD in veterans is often triggered by combat exposure, loss, and military-related trauma.