Treating Complex Trauma in the LGBTQIA+ Community

You may hear complex trauma be described ascomplex post-traumatic stress disorder, or C-PTSD.

However, there are ways to help and support LGBTQIA+ people who are dealing with complex trauma.

For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

Portrait of a young man with colored hair looking above against the window

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Children are more likely to develop complex trauma than adults, though complex trauma can develop at any age.

LGBTQIA+ people may develop complex trauma through oppression, discrimination, and bullying.

And, theres a correlation between these events and an increased risk of both mental and physical health difficulties.

And, on a larger scale, the enaction ofanti-LGBTQIA+ legislationcan be a contributing factor.

Many LGBTQIA+ people are used to simply not having any support, and never being heard.

It may actually be very different than their peers.

So, LGBTQIA+ people can oftenfeel isolatedand lonely after experiencing trauma.

Of course, many LGBTQIA+ people find community online, and this can be helpful.

If you have complex trauma, you may find it hard to feel connected to other people.

You may find keeping friends and romantic partners difficult, and you may also struggle to control your emotions.

Feelings of worthlessness, shame, and guilt can also be common in people with complex trauma.

However, we should be careful not to ask about someones trauma too quickly.

Establishing environments of safety is always the top priority, says Dr Menhinick.

Building trust takes time and a commitment to keep showing up.

A common maxim in trauma studies is the slower you go, the faster you get there.

Self-care can also be really beneficial when dealing with complex trauma.

Consistency and sticking to a routine can help, too.

You could speak to a loved one or your physician, or take a look at the resources above.

The National Child Traumatic Stress internet.Complex Trauma.

Menhinick KA, Sanders CJ.LGBTQ+ stress, trauma, time, and care.Pastoral Psychol.

The CPTSD Foundation.The LGBTQIA+ Community Complex Trauma, PTSD, and CPTSD.