Medically reviewed by Elle Markman, PsyD Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a mental health condition that develops in response to exposure to prolonged or repetitive traumatic events. CPTSD is closely related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People with CPTSD experience symptoms similar to PTSD, along with three additional symptoms: negative self-concept, affective dysregulation, and