ISTSS Guidelines Position Paper on Complex PTSD in Adults: https://istss.org/getattachment/Treating-Trauma/New-ISTSS-Prevention-and-Treatment-Guidelines/ISTSS_CPTSD-Position-Paper-(Adults)_FNL.pdf.aspx
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Elements needed for healing from complex trauma
Safety and support from one’s primary social group.
Viewing oneself as a human being who has inherent worth, dignity, the right to be free from being harmed by others, and whose pain deserves to be taken seriously.
Consistent compassionate behavior toward oneself and one’s own pain.
Defending oneself from cruel attacks (fierce compassion).
Directing anger where it belongs (i.e., the ones who caused the trauma).
Developing and using skills to regulate one’s nervous system
· Relaxation and acceptance skills to de-escalate stress response.
· Activation skills to counteract the freeze response.
· Connection skills to stay connected to people who can provide safety and support.
If sleep is not optimal, employing behavioral strategies to improve sleep.
Regular physical exercise.
Connecting with nature, sensory pleasure, meaningful activities, and good people.
In a safe context, experientially processing one’s traumatic experiences on one’s own and in the presence of a trustworthy person.
· Processing means approaching one’s traumatic experiences in a variety of ways characterized by an open and accepting attitude, rather than avoiding or suppressing them.
· This can be verbal, written, kinesthetic, imaginal, or creative (drawing, painting, poetry, fiction).
Grieving and honoring what was lost because of trauma.
Identifying and valuing one’s own posttraumatic growth and development.
Recognizing one’s commonality with the human race, particularly those who have experienced trauma.