Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after experiencing a traumatic event, such as war or sexual violence, and is classified as an acquired neurodiversity. While around 40% of those with PTSD recover within a year of treatment, Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) results from prolonged trauma and often leads to additional conditions like anxiety, depression and substance abuse. Symptoms include nightmares, flashbacks, hyperarousal, and emotional numbing, with C-PTSD adding feelings of shame, guilt and relationship difficulties.
PTSD and C-PTSD are more prevalent among women and neurodiverse individuals. A 2021 survey found that 44% of autistic adults met the criteria for PTSD, while people with ADHD are four times more likely to develop PTSD than neurotypicals. Many C-PTSD symptoms overlap with ADHD, and those with ADHD and emotional hyperarousal often experience trauma more intensely,…
