The Opioid Crisis and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

A Nationwide Calamity

Photo by Sam Burriss on Unsplash

One of the defining symptoms of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is emotional dysregulation which can lead to survivors looking for ways to cope with how they feel.

Unfortunately, opioids are one of the ways that people with CPTSD turn for relief. This article will focus on the opioid crisis as it affects those living with complex post-traumatic stress disorder.

Briefly, What is Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

While complex post-traumatic stress disorder occurs in adults under certain circumstances, it is most common among those who have experienced prolonged childhood abuse and neglect.

CPTSD is more involved than post-traumatic stress disorder because the experiences change how they respond to stress and how they see themselves.

One could write a book about the many symptoms of CPTSD, but several are listed below.

· Reliving the trauma through flashbacks and nightmares

· Avoiding situations that remind them of the trauma

· Dizziness or nausea when remembering the trauma

· Hyperarousal