CPTSD Test

What is CPTSD?

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a condition that can develop from prolonged or repeated trauma, often occurring in childhood or over an extended period.

CPTSD includes PTSD symptoms plus additional challenges with emotional regulation, self-concept, and relationships.

How CPTSD Develops

CPTSD develops when someone experiences prolonged or repeated trauma, especially during developmental years. This can include childhood abuse, neglect, domestic violence, or being held captive.

Unlike single-event trauma, complex trauma affects the development of self-identity and the ability to regulate emotions. The brain adapts to survive in unsafe environments, which can persist long after the danger has passed.

Common Symptoms of CPTSD

• Re-experiencing traumatic events
• Avoidance of trauma reminders
• Negative self-perception
• Difficulty regulating emotions
• Feeling disconnected from others
• Relationship difficulties
• Loss of meaning in life
• Persistent feelings of shame or guilt
• Difficulty trusting
• Feeling empty or hopeless

Understanding Your Results

Your score reflects how much CPTSD symptoms are currently affecting your daily life. Remember that these symptoms are normal responses to abnormal events, and healing is possible with appropriate support.

This test is based on the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), which measures ICD-11 PTSD and Complex PTSD symptoms. Each item is rated 0-4, and a symptom is considered endorsed when rated 2 (Moderately) or higher. The PTSD subscale (items 1-6) and the DSO subscale (items 7-12) each range from 0 to 24; the total ranges from 0 to 48. A pattern consistent with CPTSD requires symptom endorsement in all three PTSD clusters and all three DSO clusters. This result is an educational screening and does not include the functional impairment assessment required for a clinical diagnosis.

Healing from CPTSD

Self-Care Strategies

• Practice emotional regulation skills
• Build safe, supportive relationships
• Practice grounding techniques
• Learn to set healthy boundaries
• Be patient with your healing journey
• Practice self-compassion
• Engage in activities that bring you joy

Trauma-Informed Therapy

• Schema Therapy
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
• Internal Family Systems (IFS)
• Trauma-Focused CBT

Medication Options

While there's no medication specifically for CPTSD, certain medications can help manage symptoms:

• Antidepressants (SSRIs) for depression and anxiety
• Anti-anxiety medications for acute anxiety symptoms
• Mood stabilizers for emotional dysregulation
• Sleep aids for insomnia (short-term use)

When to Seek Help

Consider seeking trauma-informed help if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen over time
• You feel stuck in your healing
• Relationships are suffering
• You're using unhealthy coping mechanisms
• You want professional support

CPTSD in Different Populations

Children and CPTSD

Children may respond to complex trauma differently than adults:

• Developmental delays or regression
• Attachment difficulties with caregivers
• Behavioral problems at school
• Emotional dysregulation
• Dissociation or 'spacing out'
• Difficulty with peer relationships

Older Adults and CPTSD

Older adults may experience unique challenges with CPTSD:

• Compounded effects of lifelong trauma
• Increased isolation and loneliness
• Physical health complications
• Memory and cognitive difficulties
• Grief and loss complications
• Difficulty accessing trauma-informed care

References

• Cloitre, M., Shevlin, M., Brewin, C. R., Bisson, J. I., Roberts, N. P., Maercker, A., Karatzias, T., & Hyland, P. (2018). The International Trauma Questionnaire: Development of a self-report measure of ICD-11 PTSD and Complex PTSD. Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica, 138(6), 536-546.
• World Health Organization. (2019). International statistical classification of diseases and related health problems (11th ed.). https://icd.who.int/
• American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
• National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd