You may ask if there are alternatives to taking medicine for PTSD and C-PTSD? The answer is yes, but each person has unique needs so this must be discussed with a trauma-informed medical practitioner.
In fact, the class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as sertraline, paroxetine, and off-label fluoxetine— are still considered first line treatment [1] [2]. But there are choices. Read on to learn more.
What are PTSD and C-PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder are closely related but distinct mental health disorders. They are both triggered by traumatic experiences, but they differ in their causes, symptoms, and complexity.
PTSD is tied to a single or short-term traumatic event, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or assault. C-PTSD arises from prolonged or repeated trauma over months or years, often where escape is difficult, such as child abuse, domestic violence, or long-term captivity. It often involves interpersonal harm and leads to broader psychological and emotional disturbances [3].
PTSD Symptoms and Duration
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the event
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
- Negative changes in mood and cognition (e.g., guilt, detachment)
- Hyperarousal (e.g., irritability, hypervigilance)
Duration: Symptoms usually develop shortly after the trauma and may persist for months or years if untreated.
C-PTSD Symptoms and Complexity
Includes all PTSD symptoms, as well as the following [4]:
- Emotional dysregulation (e.g., severe mood swings, chronic sadness)
- Distorted self-perception (e.g., feelings of shame, guilt, or worthlessness)
- Difficulty with relationships (e.g., sense of distrust, isolation)
- Loss of a coherent sense of self or identity
- Preoccupation with the abuser or trauma (e.g., idealizing the abuser, seeking revenge)
Complexity: C-PTSD is considered more complex due to the long-term nature of the trauma and its impact on identity, relationships, and emotional regulation.
Non-Drug Approaches to Treatment
Both conditions can be treated without medication, although a combination of therapy and medication is often recommended for optimal results. It’s important to work with a trauma-informed mental health professional to determine the best treatment plan.
Non-drug approaches to treatment include the following [5]:
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for both PTSD and C-PTSD, over medication. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, which has conducted extensive studies of many different therapy approaches, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), are strong evidence-based therapies with Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) also being effective although there is not the same level of evidence at present.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR involves recalling distressing memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, to reprocess the trauma. This helps reduce emotional distress and reframe negative beliefs linked to the memory. EMDR facilitates adaptive processing, enabling individuals to integrate traumatic experiences into their lives more healthily.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a short-term, evidence-based psychotherapy designed to quickly alleviate the emotional distress associated with traumatic memories. By combining guided eye movements with visualization techniques, ART helps individuals reprocess and reframe negative images and sensations stored in the brain. This approach promotes emotional healing, reduces symptoms of trauma, and often achieves significant results in just a few sessions. ART is effective for treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
CPT focuses on modifying distorted beliefs related to trauma. Through structured sessions, patients identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts about the event, themselves, and the world. By reframing these beliefs, CPT helps individuals process trauma, reduce symptoms like guilt or shame, and improve emotional well-being. It combines cognitive restructuring with writing about the trauma, promoting healing and restoring a sense of control over one’s life.
Holistic Approaches
As a complement to therapy, holistic approaches assist in integrating mind and body as part of the healing journey. Among others, they include:
- Relaxation techniques: Learning stress management through body-centered progressive relaxation can be very helpful.
- Mindfulness Meditation: Using meditation techniques to focus on the present moment and let go of other memories or thoughts can help for re-centering and grounding.
- Nutritious Diet: Focusing on eating a healthy, balanced diet goes a long way for your mental health.
- Sleep Hygiene: Practicing good sleep habits such as going to bed at the same time, limiting use of blue screens at bedtime, and waking up at a consistent time, go a long way towards establishing health.
- Exercise: Practicing a daily habit of walking, jogging, dancing, swimming, or working out is important for regaining balance and lowering stress.
- Nature Walks: Spending time in nature with exposure to natural light can boost mood and Vitamin D levels.
Community Support
- Support Groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences is an important aspect of healing.
- Self-help Resources: Using apps to connect with others or doing app-based therapy exercises, online forums, and educational materials about PTSD and C-PTSD can enrich the healing process.
Trauma-Informed Therapies at Maple Mountain Mental Health and Wellness
Trauma can feel isolating and overwhelming, but healing is possible with the right support. Whether through therapy, medication, or holistic practices, recovery is within reach. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Maple Mountain Mental Health & Wellness Center has a compassionate team of trauma-informed therapists who are here to provide comprehensive support.
We understand the complex nature of trauma and offer individualized treatment options. Healing starts with taking the first step. Reach out to our Admissions team today.
Sources
[1] Seales, SS et al. 2022. Pharmacotherapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Am Fam Physician. 2022;106(6):623-624.
[2} Alexander W. Pharmacotherapy for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder In Combat Veterans: Focus on Antidepressants and Atypical Antipsychotic Agents. P T. 2012 Jan;37(1):32-8.
[3] What is PTSD? US Department of Veterans Affairs.
[4] Complex PTSD. US Department of Veterans Affairs.
[5] Norma S. et al. 2023. Overview of Psychotherapy for PTSD. US Department of Veterans Affairs.
