Complex Trauma 

Complex trauma is when an individual experiences traumatic experiences, often over an extended period, leading to a merging or blurring of those experiences in their memory and emotional processing. This can result in a range of psychological and emotional difficulties that are often multi-layered and challenging to address compared to single traumatic incidents.  Some common causes include:

• Childhood Abuse and Neglect, including Domestic Violence: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse during childhood, as well as neglect or abandonment (including emotional abandonment) by caregivers.

• Community Violence: Living in neighbourhoods or communities characterised by high levels of violence and crime can subject individuals to ongoing traumatic experiences.

• Medical Trauma, Prolonged or Severe Illness: invasive medical procedures, traumatic childbirth, or medical emergencies can also lead to complex trauma, especially if experienced during childhood 

• Interpersonal Trauma: Complex trauma can also result from ongoing interpersonal trauma, such as bullying, harassment, or exploitation in relationships, workplaces, or institutions.

• War and Conflict

• Natural Disasters

These factors, when experienced over an extended period and without adequate care, support or resources for coping and recovery, can contribute to the development of complex trauma. 

The following website might be helpful: https://www.complex.org