Caution: This fact sheet provides a general overview of Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorders based on the DSM-5 (Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). It is not intended for diagnostic purposes. Only a licensed mental health professional can diagnose or provide personalized treatment.
Brief Description:
A mental health condition that develops after prolonged or repeated trauma over months or years, often involving abuse, neglect, or captivity, leading to long-term emotional and psychological difficulties.
Core Symptoms:
- All core PTSD symptoms (intrusive memories, avoidance, negative mood, hyperarousal)
- Emotional dysregulation (difficulty managing intense emotions)
- Negative self-perception (feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or shame)
- Difficulty with relationships (trust issues, isolation, repeated unhealthy dynamics)
- Persistent feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
Common Onset & Course:
Usually develops in response to chronic trauma, often starting in childhood; symptoms can be long-lasting and pervasive without treatment.
Causes & Risk Factors:
- Prolonged interpersonal trauma (e.g., child abuse, domestic violence, war captivity)
- Repeated violations of personal safety or trust
- Lack of access to support or safe environments
- History of trauma across developmental stages
Diagnosis Criteria:
Not officially recognized in DSM-5. The DSM-5 (2013) only includes PTSD as a diagnosis under Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders.
It is acknowledged in ICD-11; it involves core PTSD symptoms plus disturbances in self-organization (affect regulation, self-concept, relational difficulties).
Treatment Options:
- Long-term trauma-focused psychotherapy (e.g., phase-based trauma therapy, EMDR)
- Stabilization and skills training (e.g., DBT for emotion regulation)
- Medications for co-occurring symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety)
- Support groups and trauma-informed care environments
What It Feels Like:
People often describe feeling fundamentally damaged, emotionally overwhelmed, chronically on alert, and struggling to trust or connect with others.
Important Facts to Know:
- C-PTSD can affect anyone exposed to prolonged trauma, not just combat survivors
- Healing often requires specialized, long-term therapeutic approaches
- Recovery is possible, though it can take time and consistent support
Resources & Support:
- National Center for PTSD (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
- Complex PTSD Foundation
- PTSD Alliance Website: https://www.ptsdalliance.org
- The Trauma Recovery Network
- SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
