Definition of Trauma

What is trauma?

‘A response to a discreet or prolonged circumstance which at some point is perceived by the person to be an uncontrollable serious threat to physical or psychological integrity and which overwhelms emotional resources or capacity to function in daily life.’

Defined by Angela Kennedy, Symon Day, Nicola Chadd, Ahmad Khouja and other members of the trauma pathway meeting in 2008. (Tees, Esk u0026 Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust.)

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is a disorder that may develop following exposure to an event or series of events of an extremely threatening or horrific nature, most commonly prolonged or repetitive events from which escape is difficult or impossible (for example torture, slavery, genocide campaigns, prolonged domestic violence, repeated childhood sexual or physical abuse). 

All diagnostic requirements for PTSD are met. In addition, C-PTSD is characterised by severe and persistent:

• Difficulties with emotional regulation.
• Beliefs about oneself as diminished, defeated or worthless, accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt or failure related to the traumatic event.
• Difficulties in sustaining relationships and in feeling close to others.

These experiences cause significant difficulties in personal, family, social, educational, occupational or other important areas of functioning (ICD-11, 2019).