Recognize CPTSD Tee – Not in the DSM
Unseen doesn’t mean unreal. And unlisted doesn’t mean unworthy.
This bold design features a brain stamped with “NOT IN THE DSM”—calling out a brutal truth:
CPTSD isn’t formally recognized in the American diagnostic manual.
But millions of survivors live with it every single day.
With the rallying cry “RECOGNIZE CPTSD” above and the truth “UNSEEN DOESN’T MEAN UNREAL” below, this tee turns your body into a billboard for justice, reform, and survivor visibility.
Because this isn’t just about diagnosis—it’s about dignity.
About being seen.
And about finally telling the systems:
You don’t get to ignore us anymore.
 
What Does This Shirt Stand For?
It stands for:
Survivors of ongoing, relational, or childhood trauma who are overlooked by outdated diagnostic models
The movement to include Complex PTSD in mental health frameworks like the DSM
The truth that just because a system doesn’t name our pain, doesn’t mean it isn’t valid or real
Advocacy for accurate care, trauma-informed support, and institutional accountability
This is more than awareness. It’s a demand.
 
Perfect for:
CPTSD survivors pushing for recognition and representation
Mental health professionals who believe in validating lived experience
Advocates fighting for diagnostic reform and systemic change
Anyone who’s been harmed by a “one-size-fits-all” mental health system
The “I exist, whether you name it or not” crew
---------------------------------
The light, breathable fabric means you can wear it year-round, while the classic crew neckline and retail fit enable easy pairing with jeans, shorts, or skirts. This tee is both fashionable and functional, making it a go-to item in any wardrobe.
Product features
-Made from 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton for ultimate comfort.
- Ethically manufactured with sustainability in mind, complying with fair labor practices.
- Unisex Fit- Flattering on all bodies, all genders
Care instructions
- Machine wash: cold (max 30C or 90F)
- Non-chlorine: bleach as needed
- Tumble dry: low heat
- Iron, steam or dry: medium heat
- Do not dryclean
 
Advocacy Meets Action.
This exclusive advocacy merch line is created by Healing & CPTSD LLC in proud collaboration with The Healing & CPTSD Foundation—two separate entities united by one mission: to make Complex PTSD impossible to ignore.
Healing & CPTSD LLC is a survivor-led brand amplifying trauma awareness through content and community. The Healing and CPTSD Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to systemic advocacy and providing financial healing grants for survivors.
🖤 10% of all advocacy merch proceeds are donated directly to the Healing and CPTSD Foundation to support trauma-informed policy change and financial healing grants for survivor support.
This isn’t just merch. It’s a movement.
Wear the movement. Fund the mission. Be the proof.
 
Keywords: recognize CPTSD shirt, not in the DSM tee, trauma-informed advocacy clothing, CPTSD brain graphic shirt, healing & CPTSD Foundation merch, mental health system reform tee, survivor-led advocacy apparel, DSM exclusion awareness shirt, CPTSD awareness merch, unseen doesn’t mean unreal shirt, trauma recovery visibility tee, emotional trauma support shirt