Complex PTSD affects people profoundly. The result of a nervous system left on high alert for too long, it elevates stress levels, and impairs sleep, memory and the ability to regulate emotions. Eventually, as the adrenal and immune systems become over-taxed, what starts as a mental illness can begin to take an immense toll on the body. It’s a holistically destructive condition that many never recover from.
At the heart of the “Complex” project is the idea of using the combination of storytelling, poetry and interdisciplinary media to increase public awareness of CPTSD, while exploring ways to nourish individual mental health.
My intention with this work was to begin with pieces that share my own story and also explore some of the realities that folks with CPTSD deal with, and to end with poems that stress a meditative repetition of positive messages delivered through language, music and visual images.
Learning how to create the music to accompany these pieces was one of the most rewarding elements of this work. While I did my best to self-record some of the video I used to construct and edit these pieces, I also used samples by some amazingly talented videographers, whose work I admire, and whose names appear, with gratitude, at the end of each film.
A key element in this project is the use of faith as a therapeutic tool. For me, my Christian walk served as the cornerstone of my healing journey and continues to be a fundamental element in my identity as an artist.
My most important aim in creating the pieces in “Complex” was to offer healing and hope to those in recovery from CPTSD. If that’s you – I’m so glad that you’ve found your way here! It’s my heart-felt desire that this collection leaves you feeling seen, validated, understood and most importantly, not alone.
If this work moves you, please visit my YouTube page and hit “like” to help it reach more people. And if you think someone you know might enjoy these pieces, please share.
If you’re suffering now and need someone to talk to, I encourage you to reach out to a helpline in your area (more info below…) I have reached out myself on a few occasions over the years, and it’s made a world of difference.
With virtual hugs & much love, Andrea
For a quick overview of CPTSD: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-complex-ptsd-2797491
For more on CPTSD and to access current research, ongoing support and other resources: https://cptsdfoundation.org/
And if you need someone to talk to right now, these peeps are available 24/7:
In the US & Canada, LifeLine: https://988lifeline.org/
Notes of Gratitude:
Much thanks to Aunt Pat & Uncle Dave for the beautiful space where I completed this work, and to my father, Chris Thompson for encouraging me to trust God and believe in myself. And much thanks too, to Amy Graham for her careful listening and insightful feedback.
I gratefully acknowledge the support of The Canada Council for the Arts.
