Post-traumatic stress disorder is a serious condition that occurs following a horrifying event. Unfortunately, anything that terrifies you can also lead to lasting PTSD. This condition often stems from war, natural disasters, physical abuse, rape, and car accidents. Afterward, people struggle with the memories and fears of the horror each day. All too often, PTSD and substance abuse go hand in hand.
Sadly, the number of individuals living with the pain of PTSD is rising. In fact, the Sidran Institute says one in 13 Americans will develop PTSD at some point. Furthermore, an estimated 50–66% of them will battle substance abuse too. To counter this situation, Texas addiction rehab programs are now available for PTSD patients. To improve your chances of recovery success, PTSD treatment attends to both trauma and drug or alcohol use at once.
Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
First, PTSD makes people experience their trauma over and over. Namely, they might wake up sweating and screaming from vivid nightmares. Likewise, flashbacks make them lose sight of reality and relive their terror. Frequently, loud sounds or yelling startles people with PTSD. For this reason, they may be tense and watchful constantly.
Individuals with PTSD also tend to develop a distorted view of the world. For instance, they could start blaming themselves for what happened. Similarly, they might think other people will hurt them and withdraw from society. In effect, PTSD patients stay at home and avoid activities they once loved. Being reclusive makes the risk of depression and addiction higher. When PTSD and substance abuse co-occur, the symptoms include:
- Having intense cravings for drugs or alcohol
- Needing bigger doses for the same effects
- Spending more time and money on substances
- Keeping secrets and telling lies as a cover
- Taking drastic risks when under the influence
- Slurring speech and having trouble thinking
Why PTSD and Substance Abuse Are So Connected
People with PTSD need to soothe their high anxiety somehow. If they avoid a PTSD treatment center, then drugs are a means to self medicate. Generally, substances soothe the stress and produce a “high.” Moreover, drugs release happy hormones called endorphins for brief relief. Next, the body becomes dependent on the drug for mood regulation. As a result, PTSD and substance abuse occur together frequently. Yet, that makes treatment for them both harder. If not treated, the effects of both can worsen over time. It is important to get help as soon as possible to begin healing. A qualified professional can provide the right treatment plan for a successful recovery.
It’s also vital to understand that addiction and PTSD both have psychological, emotional and physical consequences. Substance use disorder and PTSD frequently co-occur, leading to increased depression and suicide risk. In fact, the risk of suicide is more than twice as high in those with PTSD and a substance use disorder when compared with those who have only one or the other.
Therefore, it’s important to receive treatment for both disorders at the same time. Treatment may involve different approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication management and other evidence-based therapies. Treatment may also include support groups, family counseling and relapse prevention strategies that can help individuals stay sober for the long term.
Starting Dual PTSD and Addiction Rehab in San Antonio
Are you suffering from PTSD and substance abuse? Then, San Antonio Recovery Center has dual diagnosis services for you. Chiefly, our Texas drug and alcohol rehab combines the finest models of care for effective treatment of both. At the same time, our master’s level clinicians will teach coping skills for avoiding PTSD and addiction relapses. Our comfortable facility specializes in affordable services, such as:
- Alcohol addiction rehab
- Cocaine addiction rehab
- Heroin addiction rehab
- Meth addiction rehab
- Opioid addiction rehab
- Prescription drug rehab
It’s Time to Take Action
Don’t let PTSD and substance abuse keep damaging your life. Instead, find reliable support at San Antonio Recovery Center. We have experience with the best dual treatment modalities. Therefore, call us today at 866-957-7885 to begin your journey to a brighter future.
