Drug and alcohol use disorders are, sadly, quite common with people suffering from PTSD. This dual diagnosis is complex and requires an experienced team to help a person work through the many factors involved.
That said, recovery from addiction for people with PTSD is absolutely possible.
PTSD Symptoms
As said before post-traumatic stress disorder is generally caused by experiencing a traumatic. It can affect you immediately after the incident and can last for years if not properly diagnosed and treated. Here are some of the symptoms:
- Difficulty falling asleep at night
- Amnesia or memory issues
- Decreased self-image and self-esteem
- Anger management issues
- Having nightmares or reliving traumatic experiences
- Avoiding people, places, or things that are associated with the incident
- Depression and anxiety
The Link Between PTSD and Substance Abuse
People suffering from PTSD experience a high level of stress and anxiety in their daily lives. To help cope with these feelings, people often turn to substances such as alcohol, opioids, and other drugs to help increase their dopamine levels and numb themselves. Because of this, clinical phycologists have discovered that people who suffer from PTSD are 2-4 times more likely to abuse substances during these times.
PTSD and Addiction Treatment
If you are suffering from any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is essential that you reach out for PTSD and Addiction treatment as soon as possible. Reaching out for assistance from health professionals can help you detox in a safe environment while also providing you with the tools you need to recover in a safe and sustainable way.
A Holistic Approach to PTSD and Addiction Treatment
If you or a loved one want to learn more about addiction treatment for individuals with co-occurring disorders, call our experienced team today. With the help of our healthcare and addition treatment team, an addiction-free life is available.
