When Addressing Trauma Makes a Difference: A Case Report of Undiagnosed Complex Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is increasingly recognized for its link to prolonged interpersonal abuse.
• It significantly impacts affect regulation, interpersonal functioning, and self-concept.

Observation:

• A 59-year-old woman with a 30-year history of mental health services remained undiagnosed for C-PTSD.
• Her symptoms included childhood sexual abuse sequelae: avoidance, dissociative amnesia, anhedonia, guilt, re-experiencing, hypervigilance, and negative self-concept.
• Previous diagnoses included personality disorder and bipolar disorder due to affective dysregulation and relationship avoidance.

Findings:

• Re-evaluation focusing on chronic trauma contextualized her symptoms, leading to a C-PTSD diagnosis.
• Trauma-focused psychotherapy was identified as the primary treatment modality.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of assessing prolonged interpersonal trauma in complex presentations.
• Accurate C-PTSD diagnosis is crucial for accessing effective, trauma-informed treatments.
• Recognizing C-PTSD can improve long-term patient outcomes and therapeutic efficacy.