Complex PTSD in New parents

Key things to know What the evidence shows
How common is it? Not established general population
Is it more common among new parents? Existing complex trauma may strongly affect transition to parenting
Are new parents at higher risk? Strong clinical relevance, especially with childhood maltreatment/history of interpersonal trauma
How much higher is the risk? NE
How often can it be missed? Very high
Does it show up differently among new parents? Strong Yes contextually
How might it look different? Infant dependency, crying, sleep deprivation and reduced control can trigger emotion dysregulation, negative self-beliefs and relational difficulties
What commonly occurs alongside it? Depression; anxiety; PTSD
What can it be confused with? PTSD; postpartum depression; BPD; adjustment disorder
Common screening tool ITQ
Separate screening tool for new parents None
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