Why Do POC Deal With C-PTSD More Frequently?
Name-calling. Discrimination. Threats.
Violence. Harassment. Ridicule.
Marginalized people face these types of actions every single day.
Experiencing this daily can negatively impact someone’s life. Anxiety, stress, and trauma are common occurrences in the lives of people of color. In fact, people of color are more likely to deal with different forms of PTSD compared to other groups. Let’s find out why people of color (POCs) deal with C-PTSD more frequently.
What is C-PTSD?
First, let’s find out what C-PTSD means. C-PTSD is a form of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It stands for Complex PTSD. PTSD is caused by witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event like the loss of a loved one, abuse, illness, or a natural disaster. Complex PTSD is the result of a sustained or ongoing trauma instead of just a single event. Complex PTSD is usually caused by long-term abuse, neglect, or violence. These are some of the most common examples of Complex PTSD:
Kidnapping
Ongoing domestic abuse
Caregiver abuse or neglect
Prisoner of War (POW)
Prostitution
Sex trafficking
Slavery
What are the Signs and Symptoms of C-PTSD?
Complex PTSD shares a lot of the same symptoms as PTSD, but there are a few unique signs and symptoms. These are the most common signs and symptoms of Complex PTSD:
Anger
Difficulty trusting others
Feeling like an outcast or misunderstood
Hopelessness
Inability to control emotions
Self-isolation
Suicide ideation
What Does C-PTSD Have to do with POCs?
Now that you know what C-PTSD is, you may be wondering what it has to do with people of color. Marginalized communities, especially people of color, deal with discrimination and trauma every single day of their lives. They’re often discriminated against just because of the color of their skin. Every single person of color has probably experienced some form of discrimination at least once throughout their lifetime. Whether it was being bullied, harassed, or denied housing or a job, people of color experience regular trauma and stress.
On top of physically experiencing these types of negative actions, people of color also have to deal with the constant and repetitive news stories that outline innocent black lives being taken from us every single day due to violence and discrimination. These actions and events can lead to feeling hopeless, angry, and untrusting in their own world and society they live in.
Treatment Options
Complex PTSD is a serious matter that should be addressed as soon as possible. One of the strongest things you can do for yourself is to take care of yourself and get the help you need and deserve. Make sure you’re taking the time to prioritize yourself and your needs. Eat healthy and well-balanced meals. Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep each night. Move your body for at least 30 minutes each day. Incorporate a little self-love and self-care while you’re at it.
Connecting with others is a positive action for your mental health and wellness as well. Reaching out to family, friends, or people in your community can help you realize you’re not alone.
Next Steps
It’s possible to heal from trauma, but you may not be able to do it all on your own, nor are you expected to. It may be easier said than done, but reaching out for help is one of the best ways to take back control of your life again.
A therapist will be able to work with you to help get to the root cause of your trauma, complex or not. Once you peel open the layers, they’ll work with you to implement healthy coping techniques. With the right time, attention, and energy, you’ll be able to heal and move forward in your life again.
Your PTSD does not define you. Reach out today to us today to set up a consultation for trauma therapy.
Through Therapy Collective
Our team of culturally competent therapists is here to offer a warm and safe space to help you navigate life’s hardships with a sense of encouragement and empathy. Find out more >
