PTSD and Substance Abuse
Our Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers are uniquely well-equipped to help people suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use Disorder. As a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Facility, we specialize in treating addiction and the underlying causes that lead to its development. With locations throughout the United States we have extensive experience helping individuals from all walks of life overcome trauma and addiction.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental disorder that is defined as experiencing overwhelming fear, stress, and anxiety after witnessing or participating in a traumatic event. This event could be a natural disaster, physical or sexual assault, childhood abuse, accident, or other life-threatening experiences.
Unfortunately, due to the unrelenting stress and anxiety that is caused by PTSD, many people try to cope by using drugs or alcohol. Research shows that approximately 20% of individuals diagnosed with PTSD are also dealing with some form of addiction.
It was recorded during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars that 1 in 10 soldiers who returned struggled with substance abuse. Approximately 20% of veterans that have been diagnosed with PTSD are also dealing with some form of addiction.
It was recorded during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars that 1 in 10 soldiers who returned struggled with substance abuse. Approximately 20% of veterans that have been diagnosed with PTSD are also dealing with some form of addiction.
PTSD, substance abuse, and addiction are part of an interconnected relationship. They form a vicious cycle that is difficult to break without treatment. Struggling with the aftereffects of trauma and the high-intensity stress and anxiety can lead to self-medicating with illicit drugs or alcohol. Over time the use of drugs and alcohol will interfere with memory, impulse control, and an ability to function correctly. This makes it difficult to hold down a job and maintain healthy relationships.
Treating PTSD and addiction is best done at a recovery center that provides different types of therapy and programs for treatment. Unfortunately, a large number of individuals who are diagnosed with co-occurring disorders often leave treatment prematurely. In doing so, they risk relapsing because they have not learned how to cope with their trauma.
Treatment at Dr. Paul's By The Sea
At Dr. Paul's By The Sea, we work with patients who have been diagnosed with PTSD and are struggling with addiction. Our therapy and treatment programs are specialized for the individual based on their needs. We welcome individuals who may be dealing with substance abuse issues due to stressful situations and crushing anxiety.
Through our services, our patients can learn how to cope with their post-traumatic stress in a healthy way. At the same time, they will have the ability to go through detox which will expel the drugs and alcohol from their body.
Our therapy program for co-occurring disorders includes:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: A therapist will work with a patient one-on-one to help them work through their traumatic experience. Altering the patient's thought process regarding the trauma allows them to work through the experience rather than avoiding it. Understanding the way a patient thinks about the trauma and how it triggers them is an important factor with CBT. The therapist can then teach the patient to alter their thinking and form coping techniques for their symptoms.
- Group Therapy: By participating in a group, our patients will experience support from a community that knows exactly what they are going through. Sharing experiences and their own struggles with a co-occurring disorder in a safe, non-judgmental environment can help patients understand that they are not alone. Forming that group bond will provide encouragement as they progress through treatment.
- Gestalt Therapy: This therapy will help patients suffering from PTSD focus on the here and now. This allows the patient a break from re-experiencing the trauma constantly. Helping to separate their feelings and emotions about past trauma and their feelings in the present.
Dr. Paul's By The Sea employs these therapy techniques so that our patients receive the best treatment possible. We also use medication to help curb depression and manage anxiety. While it is possible to form an addiction to prescription drugs, our patients will be closely monitored by our medical specialists, thereby preventing the risk of developing an addiction.
Drinking alcohol provides short term relief for those experiencing symptoms of PTSD. It has a significant effect on the structure of the brain; it interrupts or blocks chemical signals between brain cells. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, meaning that it can slow brain functioning. This causes the mind and body to become relaxed and sluggish, which is why people drink when they are anxious or stressed.
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, meaning that it can slow brain functioning. This causes the mind and body to become relaxed and sluggish, which is why people drink when they are anxious or stressed.
However, this becomes a problem when alcohol is used to cope with extreme symptoms of trauma. These include constant depression, intense anxiety, and high-stress situations. People with PTSD will drink excessively, and over time, it will develop into an uncontrollable issue.
People with PTSD, primarily active and veteran members of the military, will drink excessively, and overtime, it will develop into an uncontrollable issue.
We Accept Insurance
Dr. Paul's By The Sea is proudly In-Network with Aetna, making quality mental health and addiction treatment more accessible and affordable. We also work with Tricare, TriWest, and many other insurance providers to ensure you receive the care you need.
Our Treatment Centers across multiple states provide comprehensive mental health and addiction treatment for individuals and families seeking support. We accept most major insurance plans and our admissions team can help verify your coverage and explain your benefits.
Causes of PTSD and Addiction
PTSD is caused by witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. While it is normal for the mind and body to experience shock after a traumatic event, if the symptoms begin to worsen over time then a disorder could develop.
Someone who has struggled with substance abuse due to PTSD can find it extremely difficult to quit. Withdrawal can be a dangerous and painful experience; alcohol withdrawal is an especially high risk without help. Due to the difficulty and dangers of withdrawal, many people will turn back to substance abuse as a way to avoid it.
An endorphin withdrawal can also be a reason for the use of drugs and alcohol in dealing with PTSD. When the brain encounters a traumatic event, it will release endorphins; these neurotransmitters will create a sense of euphoria or safety to reduce panic. After the event is over, then the endorphins leave the body, causing withdrawal. To prevent this from taking place, those with PTSD will drink or take drugs to trick the brain into releasing more endorphins.
Symptoms of PTSD
The Symptoms of PTSD can include:
- Recurring reminders of the event that intrude at random times and cannot be controlled. Often these reminders will come in the form of nightmares, flashbacks, or painful thoughts. Triggers that induce reminders of the event can cause physical and emotional reactions such as panic attacks, high blood pressure, shaking, and increased heart rate.
- Avoiding things that would trigger intrusive thoughts or panic attacks. These can include ideas, places, people, situations, etc. Often people with PTSD will completely withdraw from the outside world, including friends and family members.
- Irrational or negative thoughts can develop or increase, as well as feelings of guilt or shame. A person with PTSD would have difficulty feeling any positive emotion.
- Always being on guard or expecting the worst. Feeling unsettled or react emotionally, as indicated by unusual anger or behavior. Having difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
Risks of PTSD & Addiction
There are many risk factors if PTSD and substance abuse are left untreated. Someone who has PTSD is more likely to engage in risky behaviors. PTSD and addiction can lead to health problems, broken relationships with family and friends, difficulty in keeping a job, insomnia, and inability to be social.
Studies have shown that individuals with PTSD are at a higher risk of developing alcoholism or drug addiction. This is particularly true for those who are prescribed opiate medications to manage their symptoms. Research indicates that higher doses prescribed at more frequent rates can increase the risk of dependency. Due to this, the fatality rate because of overdoses among those with PTSD has risen.
At Dr. Paul's By The Sea, we provide comprehensive rehabilitation for PTSD and addiction. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of PTSD and are struggling with substance abuse, call Dr. Paul's By The Sea.
Our team and medical staff are ready to help you overcome your struggle with trauma. We can teach you healthy coping strategies that will keep you from turning to substance abuse. In doing so, you will learn how to live a better, more fulfilled life.
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