I have long known—or at least suspected, that many of my struggles with chronic illness are deeply tied to my stress response and nervous system. Almost without fail, periods of intense stress, whether from the death of a relative, sleep deprivation, or demanding coursework, have triggered flare-ups of my rheumatoid arthritis.
Complex PTSD (CPTSD) is a condition that develops from prolonged or repeated trauma, often leaving the nervous system in a constant state of hypervigilance. Unlike traditional PTSD, which is linked to a single traumatic event, CPTSD stems from ongoing stressors such as childhood neglect, emotional abuse, or chronic medical trauma. This dysregulated stress response can contribute to inflammation, pain, and worsening chronic illness symptoms.
Knowing that so many others with chronic conditions have experienced similar patterns, I turned to medical professionals in the mental health space to gain deeper insight. I asked:
“Medical professionals: Is there a correlation between chronic illness and CPTSD? If so, what are the necessary steps to address this?”
Here is what 14 thought leaders have to say.
- Developing a Comprehensive Care Plan
- Integrating Trauma and Chronic Illness Treatment
- Retraining the Nervous System for Stability
- Mind-Body Healing for Chronic Conditions
- Holistic Strategies for Long-Term Recovery
- The Role of EMDR in Trauma and Illness
- A Whole-Person Approach to Healing
- Parenting While Managing CPTSD and Chronic Illness
- Bridging Emotional and Physical Well-Being
- Trauma-Informed Therapy for Chronic Illness
- Supporting Expats with Chronic Illness and Trauma
- Innovative Approaches to Healing Trauma and Illness
- Breaking the Feedback Loop of Stress and Illness
- Addressing Chronic Pain and Trauma Through Chiropractic Care
See Also: How Chronic Illness Changes a Person’s Attachment Style
Developing a Comprehensive Care Plan
“Living with chronic illness is harrowing, a fact I’ve come to understand at a deep level in my medical career. Patients spend years dealing with the stress of spontaneous agranulocytosis, finding a treatment plan that works for them, and suffering from societal stigma or misunderstanding related to their condition. This chronic stress can lead to mental health disorders such as CPTSD. Witnessing this in my own practice, I remember working with one patient struggling with a complex autoimmune disorder who also presented with CPTSD symptoms, such as intense anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional numbing. What made a difference for them was a comprehensive, integrative care plan. Trauma-focused therapy, such as EMDR, gave them an outlet to process the emotional distress associated with their illness, and mindfulness strategies and relaxation techniques helped reduce their overall stress levels. Simultaneously, the close collaboration between their mental health clinicians and primary care team expertly managed the physical symptoms. I strongly advocate for a multidisciplinary treatment approach that takes into account both the physiological and psychological aspects of chronic illness. This type of holistic care can help patients heal and gain control over their lives.”
Dr. Gregory Gasic, Neuroscientist | Scientific Consultant in Physics & Theoretical Biology | Author & Co-founder, VMeDx
Integrating Trauma and Chronic Illness Treatment
“In my practice at Light Within Counseling, I have observed a strong interplay between chronic illness and Complex PTSD (CPTSD). When working with clients experiencing both, a critical step is to address the trauma’s impact on physical health. For instance, I use Brainspotting and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) to help clients process trauma, which can often alleviate some chronic illness symptoms by reducing stress-related inflammation.”
Kelsey Thompson, LMFT, highlights the effectiveness of a holistic approach in treating clients with fibromyalgia and CPTSD. By combining Brainspotting and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she helped a client process emotional pain and improve symptom management. She emphasizes the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship, ensuring clients feel supported while addressing both psychological and physical aspects of their condition for long-term healing and resilience.
Kelsey Thompson, LMFT, Owner, Light Within Counseling
Retraining the Nervous System for Stability
“There’s a huge connection between chronic illness and CPTSD, and honestly, it makes so much sense when you understand how trauma impacts the body.
When someone has lived in chronic stress or survival mode for years, their nervous system adapts-it either gets stuck in fight-or-flight (anxiety, overworking, always on edge) or freeze (exhaustion, brain fog, complete shutdown). And when the body spends years bracing for danger, it takes a toll.
People with CPTSD are more likely to deal with autoimmune disorders, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, gut issues (IBS, inflammation), migraines, and even heart problems. It’s not “just stress” or “all in your head,” it’s the nervous system stuck in overdrive, throwing off everything from immune function to digestion to pain regulation.”
Trauma Therapist Sarah Herstich stresses that “Healing isn’t just about treating symptoms, it’s about teaching the nervous system that it’s safe again.”
Herstich shares some tips:
- Regulate the nervous system – Use somatic therapy, EMDR, and polyvagal-informed practices to shift out of survival mode.
- Practice grounding techniques – Slow breathing, vagus nerve activation, and mindfulness can create a sense of safety.
- Listen to your body – Symptoms are signals, not failures; movement, rest, and self-compassion help regulate them.
- Prioritize rest – Healing doesn’t happen in hustle mode; slowing down is key to recovery.
- Adopt balanced eating and movement – Avoid restrictive diets; focus on blood sugar balance, regular meals, and movement that feels good.
- Integrate mental and physical health – Trauma-informed care, functional medicine, acupuncture, and body-based treatments address root causes.
Sarah Herstich, Trauma Therapist, Reclaim Therapy
Mind-Body Healing for Chronic Conditions
In my practice at Dream Big Counseling & Wellness, I’ve frequently encountered a significant overlap between chronic illness and Complex PTSD (CPTSD). These conditions can often intertwine, as the stress and trauma from chronic illnesses may lead to symptoms of CPTSD, and vice versa. For instance, a client with a long-term physical illness experienced severe anxiety triggered by medical procedures, which I helped address through techniques like EMDR to mitigate PTSD symptoms.
Addressing this involves a holistic approach focusing on mind, body, heart, and soul. Within my sessions, I use therapies such as EMDR to help reprocess trauma-related memories, alongside developing skills for emotion regulation and distress tolerance. Building a supportive therapeutic environment is crucial, allowing clients to explore and integrate their experiences healthily.
We also emphasize resilience by identifying each client’s unique strengths. By fostering a deeper understanding of their experiences and developing mindfulness practices, clients can better manage the interplay of chronic illness and CPTSD. This personalized strategy has proven effective in supporting individuals toward improved mental and emotional well-being.
Anne Marie White, Licensed Professional Counselor, Dream Big Counseling and Wellness
Holistic Strategies for Long-Term Recovery
Chronic illness and C-PTSD often share a complex relationship, as trauma can significantly impact both mental and physical health. In my practice, I’ve seen how prolonged trauma, like childhood abuse or domestic violence, can lead to neurobiological changes that affect bodily functions, potentially contributing to chronic conditions. These experiences often manifest as heightened stress responses, which over time, can exacerbate or even trigger chronic illnesses.
From my work at Clarity Therapy NYC, I know that addressing C-PTSD effectively requires a holistic approach. Combining psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness techniques, I focus on helping clients understand the underlying trauma and its impact on their physical health. By fostering self-awareness and emotion regulation, clients often begin to see improvements not only in their mental well-being but also in their physical symptoms related to chronic illness.
A custom therapeutic journey is essential for those with chronic conditions and C-PTSD. Through collaborative therapy, we explore the root causes of trauma and their physiological effects, empowering clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. This comprehensive approach can mitigate the severity of chronic illness symptoms, offering a pathway to improved health and a more fulfilling life.
Logan Jones, Psy.D, Psychologist & Director, Clarity Therapy NYC
The Role of EMDR in Trauma and Illness
Chronic illness and Complex PTSD (CPTSD) do indeed have a correlation, as I’ve observed in many clients during my practice. Developmental trauma, which often leads to CPTSD, has deep-seated impacts not just on mental health, but also on physical health. Research shows a history of trauma can result in comorbidities like anxiety, depression, and even conditions such as heart disease.
I use EMDR therapy in my sessions to tackle these intertwined issues, especially because it’s effective in reprocessing trauma-related memories, which can manifest physically. By targeting these deep-rooted traumas, clients often report improved psychological balance and relief from physical symptoms linked to trauma, like chronic pain or fatigue.
My focus is on personalized, intensive EMDR sessions—customized to each client’s trauma history—that facilitate quick, profound healing. These sessions are designed to address the emotional roots that may manifest as physical conditions, aiding in overall well-being. This holistic approach ensures that both psychological and physical facets of trauma are addressed simultaneously.
Linda Kocieniewski, Psychotherapist, Linda Kocieniewski Therapy
A Whole-Person Approach to Healing
There is growing evidence suggesting a correlation between chronic illness and complex PTSD (CPTSD). Prolonged stress and trauma can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, weaken the immune system, and contribute to conditions like inflammation and autoimmune disorders. In our experience at Wimpole Clinic, we’ve also seen how this connection impacts hair health. Chronic stress, often linked to CPTSD, can lead to conditions like telogen effluvium or exacerbate alopecia.
Addressing this requires a holistic approach. Medical professionals should prioritize mental health support alongside physical treatments. Therapy, mindfulness practices, and stress management techniques can significantly improve outcomes. Additionally, proper nutrition, restorative sleep, and a tailored treatment plan for the physical symptoms-whether hair loss or other chronic conditions-are essential. By treating the root causes, we can help patients achieve both physical and emotional healing.
Dr. Michael May, Medical Director, Wimpole Clinic
Parenting While Managing CPTSD and Chronic Illness
I’ve often observed that chronic illness and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) can significantly impact parenting journeys. For parents experiencing severe pregnancy sickness or birth trauma, the combination of chronic physical symptoms and emotional distress can disrupt mental health and workplace satisfaction. I’ve found that addressing this requires a focus on enhancing mental health and management within organizations to create supportive environments for parents.
From my experience, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is particularly effective in treating C-PTSD related to chronic illness. For example, one client with hyperemesis gravidarum experienced rapid relief from trauma symptoms after an intensive EMDR program. Addressing traumatic memories helped alleviate her chronic stress, ultimately improving her functionality at work and home.
To tackle this effectively, it is crucial for organizations to implement evidence-based mental health support systems. By offering therapy programs focused on perinatal experiences and integrating management training, companies can lead the way in reducing burnout and turnover, fostering a thriving workforce even amidst chronic challenges.
Dr. Rosanna Gilderthorp, Clinical Psychologist & Director, Know Your Mind Consulting
Bridging Emotional and Physical Well-Being
Yes, traumatic experiences cause an excess of cortisol and adrenaline to be released into our bloodstream. These stress hormones can be toxic and can lead to gastrointestinal issues, cancer, autoimmune disease, etc. Often our body reflects our emotional state.
In my practice as a trauma therapist, I’ve seen clients who carry guilt experience autoimmune disease, or anger manifesting as gastrointestinal issues. Our mind and body are connected.
If we begin to heal our mental and emotional wounds, we may see an improvement in physical health as well. I’ve seen firsthand how my client’s trauma treatment has improved his severe stomach pain once the emotional pain was released.
Liz Chelak, Psychotherapist, Trauma Therapy Center
Trauma-Informed Therapy for Chronic Illness
In my work at Intensive Therapy Retreats, I’ve seen how chronic illness and Complex PTSD (CPTSD) can indeed be interconnected. Chronic illness often places the body in a continuous state of stress, which may exacerbate or even trigger CPTSD symptoms. This connection emphasizes the necessity for a comprehensive approach that considers both physical and psychological well-being.
A pivotal step in addressing this correlation involves employing therapies like EMDR, which are part of our intensive trauma retreats. I’ve witnessed clients who, after only a few days of immersive therapy, show reduced stress responses and improved emotional health. One example is a client dealing with chronic pain, who found relief in both physical and mental symptoms through this integrated approach.
Moreover, understanding the mind-body connection is crucial. Trauma impacts both mental and physical health, and our methods, such as Progressive Counting, help facilitate holistic healing. By addressing psychological triggers alongside managing chronic illness, clients can experience improved resilience and a pathway to recovery.
Bambi Rattner, Psy.D, Owner, Intensive Therapy Retreats
Supporting Expats with Chronic Illness and Trauma
In my work at Therapy in Barcelona, we often see expats dealing with complex layers of stress, which can exacerbate chronic illnesses and align with features of CPTSD. For expats, the chronic stress of adapting to a new culture, language barriers, and separation from support systems can mirror traumatic stress responses. Addressing these issues often requires a blend of evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Somatic (Body-Based) Therapy to manage mind-body stress connections effectively.
An example from our practice involved an expat client struggling with chronic fatigue syndrome alongside signs of CPTSD. By tailoring therapy to include Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, we helped manage the emotional dysregulation and physical symptoms concurrently. This approach underscores the importance of considering both physical and psychological factors when dealing with chronic illness and trauma.
We prioritize personalized therapist-client matching to ensure culturally sensitive care, recognizing that understanding the client’s unique background, including their expat experience, is crucial. Thus, therapy may incorporate practical strategies for managing daily challenges, along with deeper work to address past traumas, leading to a more comprehensive recovery process.
Leigh Matthews, Founder, Therapy in Barcelona
Innovative Approaches to Healing Trauma and Illness
In my experience with MentalHappy, I’ve seen how chronic illnesses can be deeply intertwined with CPTSD symptoms. This correlation often appears when individuals face prolonged medical challenges that mimic trauma’s emotional and psychological effects. For instance, one group participant who joined our journaling-based support group, Write it Out, reported decreased feelings of isolation and improved emotional regulation by having a structured way to express and process her ongoing health struggles.
Addressing the connection between chronic illness and CPTSD requires a multifaceted approach. The integration of creative interventions, such as journaling, has successfully fostered emotional healing by providing a safe space for participants to articulate their experiences. This is crucial for those with chronic health conditions who often feel misunderstood by the mainstream medical community. Personalized support and consistent community connection through custom virtual group sessions can significantly assist in managing these complex emotional landscapes.
Tamar Blue, Chief Executive Officer, MentalHappy
Breaking the Feedback Loop of Stress and Illness
“Yes, there is a strong and often overlooked connection between chronic illness and CPTSD-not just because of medical trauma, but because the body physically holds onto stress, pain, and fear.
How They Reinforce Each Other:
The Body Becomes “Stuck” in Survival Mode
- Chronic illness triggers prolonged stress responses, keeping cortisol and inflammation high.
- In CPTSD, the nervous system fails to reset, making pain and fatigue more intense and harder to manage.
The “Medical Betrayal” Effect
- Many with chronic illnesses face gaslighting, misdiagnosis, and dismissal from doctors-leading to medical PTSD.
- Over time, this erodes trust, making people avoid care, worsening symptoms.
Pain Becomes an Emotional Memory
- CPTSD affects the brain’s ability to process pain, making physical symptoms feel more severe and constant.
- The body becomes hyper-reactive, misinterpreting even minor discomfort as danger.“
Tansha Casarez, Founder of HER BALANCED WORLD, emphasizes breaking the cycle of chronic illness and CPTSD by teaching the body it’s safe, rebuilding medical trust, and addressing root causes rather than just symptoms. She highlights that CPTSD rewires stress responses, making true healing about unlearning survival mode and restoring wellness.
Tansha Casarez, Founder & Lead Visionary, HER BALANCED WORLD
Addressing Chronic Pain and Trauma Through Chiropractic Care
As a chiropractor committed to a holistic approach to health, I often see correlations between chronic illness and conditions like CPTSD in my practice. Emotional stressors impact physical health significantly. For instance, chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can exacerbate conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, as mentioned in my work with stress management.
Addressing this requires a multi-faceted approach. I often integrate techniques such as massage and chiropractic adjustments, which are proven to relieve stress and improve nervous system function. This can help manage both the physical and psychological symptoms of CPTSD.
In one case, a patient dealing with chronic pain and stress found relief and improvement by combining chiropractic care with lifestyle advice, including stress-reducing activities like yoga. This approach underscores the importance of understanding the root cause of discomfort to provide custom and effective treatments.
Dr. Mitch Stanlick, Owner, Stanlick Chiropractic
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever felt like stress or past trauma worsens your chronic illness, you’re not alone. Many experts recognize this connection, and there are steps you can take toward healing.
- CPTSD and chronic illness are linked – Trauma keeps the nervous system in survival mode, worsening symptoms.
- Healing requires a whole-body approach – Mental health care, lifestyle changes, and medical support work together.
- Regulating the nervous system is key – Somatic therapy, EMDR, and grounding techniques help restore balance.
- Medical trauma can make things worse – Finding trauma-informed doctors and setting boundaries rebuilds trust.
- Small changes matter – Balanced nutrition, movement, and sleep all support recovery.
- Healing takes time – Symptoms are signals, not setbacks. Self-compassion makes a difference.
Share Your Experience
Do you see a link between stress, trauma, and chronic illness in your own life? What strategies have helped you? Let’s start a conversation in the comments!
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