If you have lived through childhood sexual abuse, you know the pain doesn’t end when the abuse stops. For many survivors, the trauma lingers—shaping how you feel, how you relate to others, and how you see yourself. This long-term impact often shows up as something called Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) or chronic PTSD.
If you’ve ever wondered “Why am I still struggling?” or “Why can’t I just move on?”—this article is for you.
What Is Complex PTSD?
Most people have heard of PTSD, which can happen after a single traumatic event. But Complex PTSD is different. It happens when the trauma is repeated, long-term, and starts early in life—like childhood sexual abuse.
C-PTSD includes symptoms of PTSD (like flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety), but it also affects deeper parts of your identity and daily life. You might experience:
- Constant shame, guilt, or feeling “bad” inside
- Trouble managing emotions—feeling overwhelmed, angry, or numb
- Deep trust issues or trouble with closeness in relationships
- Feeling detached or like you’re “watching” your life happen
- A sense that you’re “too much” or “not enough”—or both at once
You may not have the words to describe what you’re feeling. Many survivors weren’t allowed to speak up or be heard. But the pain you carry is real—and it makes sense.
Why Is Healing So Hard?
Childhood sexual abuse isn’t just about what happened. It’s about when it happened—during the years you were learning who you were, how safe the world was, and whether people could be trusted.
You may have learned to hide your feelings, disconnect from your body, or try to be “perfect” to survive. These were not weaknesses—they were powerful survival tools. The problem is, those same tools can make adult life feel confusing, lonely, or overwhelming.
Maybe you have tried therapy or medications that didn’t help much. Maybe you have been told you’re depressed, anxious, or even “borderline.” You may have started to wonder: “Is it just me?” No—it’s the trauma, not you. Misdiagnosis is common, especially when the full story of your abuse hasn’t been heard.
What Helps?
There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but many survivors find healing through:
- Trauma-Informed Therapy
Look for therapists who specialize in childhood trauma, especially those trained in methods like EMDR, or somatic therapies. You deserve a therapist who helps you feel safe and respected.
- Learning to Regulate Emotions
Healing doesn’t mean never getting triggered—it means learning how to come back to yourself when you do. Mindfulness, grounding exercises, and self-soothing tools can help.
- Connecting with Others
Isolation is a common effect of trauma. But you don’t have to heal alone. Survivor groups—online or in person—can offer deep validation and hope.
- Expressive Healing
Art, journaling, music, and movement can let your body and emotions speak when words are too hard.
- Rebuilding Your Relationship with Yourself
Our lawyers assist survivors of childhood sexual abuse and we use trauma informed practice. In the event you have any enquiries in relation to your legal rights please contact us.
