Many people experience trauma, and everyone reacts differently. For some, the impact of trauma naturally fades over time. Others may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a serious mental health condition that can become devastating when left untreated.
To cope with the symptoms of PTSD, which include anxiety, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and flashbacks related to their trauma, many people will self-medicate with drugs, alcohol, or both. Thus, PTSD and substance use disorders (SUD) often co-occur, particularly alcohol use disorder (AUD).
The dual diagnosis treatment program at The Ranch provides comprehensive, evidence-based, and holistic treatment to address the complex nature of how PTSD and AUD influence one another and help clients break this challenging cycle. Call 1.844.876.7680 to learn how we can help you or your loved one break free from PTSD and AUD.
The Connection Between PTSD and Alcoholism
We don’t fully understand why some people develop PTSD and others do not, but genetics, personality, and environment are all factors. The same applies to AUD. It cannot be said that PTSD causes AUD, but research shows that individuals with PTSD are at higher risk for developing AUD and other substance use disorders. Likewise, individuals with AUD are more likely to experience trauma that can lead to PTSD.
Common symptoms of PTSD include the following:
- Intrusive thoughts – People with PTSD experience flashbacks, distressing and recurrent memories, or nightmares related to the traumatic event.
- Avoidance – Those with PTSD tend to avoid people, places, activities, or events that are reminders of the trauma.
- Emotional distress – People with PTSD may experience intense and persistent fear, shame, guilt, sadness, anger, or confusion, which can often be exaggerated and unpredictable.
- Hyperarousal – With PTSD, people often constantly feel on edge and irritable and have an exaggerated startle response, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances.
- Hypervigilance – PTSD can cause people to become excessively watchful or constantly on guard, scanning the environment for threats or danger.
It is easy to understand how overwhelming these symptoms can become. In trying to find symptom relief, many people with PTSD use alcohol to self-medicate. However, alcohol is a depressant that can intensify the frequency and severity of symptoms. While alcohol use may provide temporary relief, ultimately, it compounds current problems and creates new ones.
The Risks of Self-Medicating
For many, self-medicating leads to a complex, vicious cycle because when PTSD symptoms worsen, the urge to drink becomes more intense, but drinking exacerbates symptoms. As the frequency and quantity of drinking increases, so does tolerance and dependency, contributing to the development of AUD.
Other risks associated with self-medicating can include:
- Physical health risks, including organ damage and overdose
- Worsening mental health, including depression and anxiety
- Cognitive impairments from long-term AUD
- Relationship problems with friends, family, and colleagues
- Job loss or difficulty maintaining employment
- Legal problems
- Impaired judgment
- Increased aggression or violence
- Unpredictable mood swings and behaviors
Self-medicating with drugs or alcohol can prevent people from seeking the professional medical and psychological help they need. In some cases, AUD becomes the predominant presenting problem. Breaking the cycle of PTSD and AUD requires comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment to address both conditions effectively.
Call Today to Enroll in Dual Diagnosis Treatment at The Ranch
Trauma is an emotional response to a distressing experience. Untreated trauma can lead to the development of PTSD, which is associated with an increased risk for alcohol use disorder because of the tendency to self-medicate with alcohol to manage PTSD symptoms.
At The Ranch, we understand the complexities of co-occurring PTSD and AUD. We provide evidence-based dual diagnosis treatment to address both conditions simultaneously for better outcomes. Here, clients have a safe, supportive environment to process trauma effectively to heal and move forward.
The Ranch staff is specifically trained in trauma and how it impacts overall well-being. We offer trauma-focused therapies like EMDR, equine-assisted therapy, Brainspotting, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Unresolved trauma does not have to control your life. Call 1.844.876.7680 or complete our online form to enroll in dual diagnosis treatment today.
