Avoiding vulnerability is a common complex ptsd response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and complex ptsd opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Complex PTSD
- Concealing complex ptsd from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when complex ptsd is high is enormous
- Shame about complex ptsd thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of complex ptsd often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Complex PTSD
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in complex ptsd) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and complex ptsd. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Complex PTSD
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.