Every year, millions of people are affected by Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is one that often occurs after a person either experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Such as an accident, a natural disaster, military combat, or an act involving physical or sexual abuse. One critically overlooked, but extremely problematic, consequence of PTSD is its comorbidity with drug and alcohol addiction.
Drug and alcohol addiction are commonly associated with PTSD for many who suffer. This can be difficult to deal with as it is the presence of both conditions simultaneously. It is known as a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis. If we can understand more about the bond between PTSD and Substance Abuse. Then we can be in a better position and state to treat people and help them out.
How PTSD Causes The Use Of Substances
PTSD inflicts great emotional pain. This can cause people with PTSD to relive in flashbacks, nightmares, extreme anxiety or feeling like they’re never safe. People use substances like alcohol, prescription pills or drugs to numb those symptoms.
Drugs can take the edge off the emotional pain, or help people sleep. But they don’t solve the underlying problem. Instead, they perpetuate a cycle of dependence. That makes the original trauma harder to work through.
That is self-medication treating untreated emotional distress with substances. Eventually, the brain becomes dependent on these substances to work, causing addiction.
Effect Of Substance Abuse On PTSD
Though drugs or alcohol might provide quick relief. They often exacerbate PTSD symptoms in the long term. Substance use can:
Interfere with sleep
Rise of stress and depression
Reduce capacity to digest trauma
Cause memory problems
Result in either unsafe actions or unsafe situations
When substance abuse is thrown in with PTSD, it is more difficult to treat either in isolation. Which is why a dual-diagnosis approach meaning you treat both illnesses at the same time is crucial.
Symptoms to Watch For
If you or someone you know suffers from PTSD and could be abusing drugs or alcohol, look for the following signs:
Participating in more drinking or drug use
Steering clear of locations, people, or events that remind of the trauma
Changes in mood or behavior
Being away from family and friends
Difficulty sleeping or bad dreams
Elevated anxiety,panic attacks, or feeling emotionally flat
If identified early, this could mean faster intervention and better recovery prospects.
Seeking Help for the Two Conditions
There is good news, however both PTSD and substance use disorders are treatable. Recovery can happen if you have the right support system and care. In the best of circumstances, you get what’s called an integrated treatment. One that addresses both conditions at the same time.
You may need to receive treatment such as:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A type of therapy that assist people identify and alter negative ways of thinking.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) A method to aid in processing traumatic memories.
Group Therapy: Connecting with others with similar experiences can be very therapeutic.
Medication: Sometimes, medication can be used to manage anxiety, depression or cravings.
Whole-Person Therapies: Mindfulness, meditation and exercise may also aid in recovery.
If you’re seeking a therapist near me North Field, many clinicians in that area focus on trauma recovery and addiction. When it comes to healing, custom treatment plans and caring therapy are essential for a patient’s recovery.
Local Support Options
Getting the support you need is the crucial factor in recovery. For Ohio residents, there are helpful therapy resources. If you’re looking for a North Royalton-area therapist. There are choices available that provide a safe place to address struggles related to PTSD as well as substance use.
Seek out licensed mental health professionals trained in dual diagnosis treatment. Also, many therapists now offer online or telehealth sessions, a potential boon to everyone.
Final Thoughts
PTSD is a serious disorder, and so is substance abuse. But when people are treated with compassion, comprehension and evidence-based strategies, they can recover.
If you are experiencing trauma and addiction. Or if you know someone who is, you’re not alone. The first part asking for help can lead to healing, hope, and a brighter future.
