This is another behavior that is used as an attempt to manage the pain of living with unresolved traumatic stress.
Avoidance of distress or pain-especially of anything that is similar to the traumatic conditions that induced Complex PTSD-is another tell-tale sign.
But because Complex PTSD is caused by traumatic stress-which BPD generally is not-it is important that any therapy you engage in is trauma-informed.
Generally, such conditions are ones that occurred and persisted through childhood, but it is possible to develop Complex PTSD as an adult.
Examples of situations that can cause Complex PTSD include long-term childhood abuse, surviving through time in a concentration or labor camp, being held captive, or exposure to repeated domestic violence.
However, once out of the traumatic conditions, these behaviors can be understandably self-destructive, and hurtful to loved ones who witness them-or if they are directly impacted, such as in the case of being yelled at in response to bringing up a conflict, or as the result of substance abuse.
However, it is important to remember if you or a loved one are exhibiting these behaviors as a result of Complex PTSD-it is not because you or that person is inherently .
Substance abuse is a common struggle for those who have Complex PTSD.
In an attempt to cope with the immense stress of Complex PTSD, some turn to drugs or alcohol for relief.
Compared to BPD, those who have Complex PTSD report a consistent self-concept, it just happens to be one that is "consistently negative". Source: mil Additionally, while those who have BPD have difficulty with relationships, it is generally attributed to the tendency to fluctuate between idealizing and devaluing others and avoid abandonment at all costs.
Those with Complex PTSD also struggle with relationships, but this is a result of avoidant behavior and a feeling of disconnection or alienation from others.
Complex PTSD can look like other conditions as well, so it's critical that you get evaluated by a professional.
Source: mil Complex PTSD is generally considered to be more disabling than PTSD and requires careful treatment considerations.
This can look like avoiding conflict altogether and becoming "people pleasing", or lashing out at someone for offering a minor criticism, deflecting the criticism onto the other person.