For many patients, traumatic events can lead to long-term mental health consequences. When survivors of violence or natural disasters develop a subsequent mental health issue, it’s called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Often, doctors see PTSD and addiction occur together.
When severe symptoms accompany anxiety or depression, those who have PTSD will frequently turn to alcohol or drugs to deal with pain. Here is the primary connection between PTSD and addiction.
At Sierra Sage, we specialize in providing treatment programs that help resolve issues related to PTSD and addiction. Reach out to SSRS today at 833.922.2884 to learn more about the many comprehensive services we provide and how we can help you on your path to recovery.
How PTSD Potentially Leads to Addiction
Many life experiences contribute to the development of PTSD. Some of these incidents can include:
- Accidents
- Military combat
- Terrorism
- Natural disasters
- Assault
- Death of a loved one
Witnessing these types of events or experiencing them first-hand can lead to PTSD. Once this type of mental health disorder develops, it typically causes anxiety, agitation, and even depression.
Many patients attempt to self-medicate their PTSD symptoms. In some instances, these symptoms develop over time, and they can last for years without professional intervention.
This type of long-term stress often causes people with PTSD to seek out drugs and alcohol. Self-medicating to “treat” the long-term symptoms is what correlates PTSD and addiction.
How PTSD Affects the Brain
Those with PTSD experience a physical change in brain chemistry similar to changes associated with substance use disorder and addiction.
For that reason, both diseases typically engage one another in a positive feedback loop. Many times, the trauma that causes PTSD is the same trauma that leads to substance use disorder.
The brain is responsible for producing endorphins. These vital chemicals help an individual to feel happy and have an overall sense of well-being.
PTSD reduces the brain’s endorphin production, which can increase feelings of depression and anxiety.
When that patient engages in substance use, the brain releases an excess of endorphins. Over time, the body adapts and begins to require these substances to prevent negative emotions. Gradually, more of the patient’s DOC (drug of choice) is necessary to achieve even minimal levels of well-being.
Dependency such as this increases the chances of a person becoming addicted to a substance. It also works as a temporary or quick fix to PTSD symptoms rather than an effective, long-term solution.
How Addiction Worsens PTSD Symptoms
While PTSD presents slightly differently in every patient, certain common symptoms become pronounced when addiction co-occurs. Some of these include:
- Avoidance
- Intrusive memories
- Emotional reactions
- Altered thought processes
The consistent use of drugs or alcohol can exacerbate these symptoms. For example, a person suffering from PTSD and addiction may experience more night terrors and regular flashbacks of the traumatic event.
Patients with both conditions may become more isolated as they seek ways to avoid triggers and treat their PTSD. Memory lapses and reduced “happy hormone” levels easily can make it hard to think through solutions with clarity.
Additionally, paranoia, insomnia, and self-destructive behaviors are more present when PTSD co-occurs with addiction.
Finding an Effective PTSD Treatment Program
PTSD is a complex disorder. It requires a PTSD treatment program that treats the symptoms of PTSD and addiction.
Treating symptoms and conditions is key to a successful recovery. Treatment options for PTSD and addiction are vast and varied. They may include everything from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and one-on-one counseling to physical therapy, group therapy, or 12-step programs.
Above all, it’s crucial to find treatment options you can customize to your individual needs and experiences as a patient.
Reach Out to Sierra Sage Recovery Services
When you’re ready to turn the page on wellness and take back the life you love and deserve, the team at Sierra Sage is here to help. We provide a variety of treatment options for those suffering from both PTSD and addiction.
Reach out to the team of mental health professionals today at Sierra Sage by dialing 833.922.2884. You can use the online form when looking for more information on how our recovery programs may be right for you.
