Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Such events may include the following:
Because of exposure to such an event, many people struggle with PTSD, which causes a variety of negative reactions.
Common reactions to PTSD symptoms include the following:
Because of these reactions, many people suffering with PTSD turn to drugs or alcohol in an effort to relieve these symptoms, at least for a short period of time.
When a person suffering with PTSD turns to alcohol, the temporary escape is often not sufficient to relieve the reactions to PTSD. Therefore, many people continue to use alcohol to the point of abuse or addiction.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), alcohol addiction (alcoholism) is a progressive debilitating disease that includes the following symptoms:
Alcohol or any other substance abuse is not the answer to dealing with PTSD.
An integrated treatment program is a good choice for a person with PTSD and alcoholism for several reasons, including the following:
In addition, patients receive aftercare support to help them avoid a relapse.
If you or someone you know is suffering with a Dual Diagnosis condition, you need advice about the most appropriate rehabilitation services. While recovery from abuse and mental health issues is difficult, it is possible, and we can help. Please call our toll-free number today. Our admissions coordinators are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you have about Dual Diagnosis rehabilitation.