Substance Abuse and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating psychiatric disorder that affects millions of people around the world and approximately 8 million people in the U.S. Generally speaking, PTSD is rooted in a traumatic event that affected a person so deeply that they suffer from the after effects such as living in fear that it could happen again and actively avoiding people, places and things that reminder them of the event that took place.

Symptoms of PTSD

There are a number of symptoms associated with PTSD. However, the three classic symptoms of PTSD are the following;

-       Unwanted thoughts and recollections of the traumatic event

-       Avoiding reminders of the traumatic event

-       Constantly being on guard or alert to signs of danger

Also, panic attacks, feelings of mistrust, depression, suicidal thoughts and even substance abuse are associated with PTSD.

Symptoms of Substance Abuse

Here are the classic signs of substance abuse;

-       Neglecting responsibilities: not showing up for work, doing chores, going to school, etc.

-       Using alcohol or drugs in dangerous situations: Being under the influence while driving, having unprotected sex, operating heavy machinery, etc.

-       Legal Difficulty: Getting arrested for disorderly conduct, DUI, stealing, etc.

-       Relationship Difficulties: Having fights with loved ones, friends, co-workers and bosses.

-       Continued use despite these life complications.

Why someone with PTSD develops Substance Abuse

For those with PTSD, a drug or substance can be an escape from the unresolved feelings associated with the original traumatic event.  In order to reduce the intense symptoms, a person struggling with PTSD may try to reduce or avoid the symptoms by using alcohol or drugs. Drugs and alcohol can act as an escape, allowing them a way to relieve their distress, even though it causes more problems in the long run.

Co-occurrence of PTSD and Substance Abuse

There is a high degree of substance abuse among people suffering from PTSD.  When two disorder occur together, they are referred to as co-occurring or dual diagnosis disorders.  For example, of people who have been diagnosed with PTSD, 21-43% also have a substance abuse disorder. Even higher rates have been found in veterans.  For example, up to 75% of combat veterans with PTSD also met criteria for alcohol abuse or dependence.  On the other hand, in substance abuse populations, 26 to 52% also had a PTSD diagnosis.  PTSD tends to occur about twice as often in females compared to males. Both PTSD and substance abuse can co-occur each other, but it’s possible that the two may not be directly related.  For example, in some cases the substance abuse disorder may precede the traumatic event and get worse after the event.

Whether the substance abuse came before or after PTSD, treating both disorders is necessary for the person to start their recovery. Because our dual diagnosis treatment center relies on evidence based practices, our Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program shares many common methods with other successful rehab programs.  The foundations of our treatment program for substance abuse also rely on the principles of harm reduction, motivational interviewing, stages of change and cognitive behavioral therapy to promote recovery from alcohol abuse and drug treatment.  We rely on the proven techniques of relaxation training, desensitization, cognitive behavioral training and desensitization to treat trauma.  In fact, our Intensive Outpatient Program in Memphis, TN that has been proven to be effective in the treatment of trauma, alcohol abuse and drug treatment in peer reviewed treatment outcome studies.   Our treatment center  provides services to those who need more treatment than one hour a week, but less than 24 hour care, by providing three hours of treatment per day, three to five days per week, in an intensive outpatient setting.  If you or a loved one is showing signs of PTSD, alcohol abuse or needs drug treatment rehab, they should be assessed by a trained mental health professional who can help design a treatment plan that can result in recovery.  Treatment for PTSD and substance abuse can be highly successful.  Call us at 901-682-6136 to schedule an appointment.