By: Lakeview Health
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the many risk factors that lead a person toward a life of addiction. PTSD and substance abuse often go hand-in-hand, so it’s important that when a person is treated for addiction, their mental health issues must be addressed as well. Alcohol and depression are often overlooked by loved ones. The leading cause of relapse is an undiagnosed or untreated mental illness, which is why a qualified addiction treatment facility focuses on both PTSD and substance abuse issues.
How Does Dual Diagnosis Relate to PTSD and Substance Abuse?
When someone has PTSD and substance abuse issues, they have a co-occurring disorder, which is often called a dual diagnosis. Addiction is a mental illness and has been classified as a disease, and there are certain methods that have been proven to help treat people suffering from addiction. Symptoms of mental illness like anxiety, depression, and mood disorders can be attributed to the affects drugs or alcohol have on the brain, and sometimes they disappear after a person has detoxed. When it comes to PTSD and substance abuse, the symptoms of mental illness are often still there after the person’s mind is clear of substances.
Treating PTSD and Substance Abuse
PTSD occurs after a person has experienced any type of traumatic event. It is a legitimate disorder that makes the person have symptoms of fear, stress, anger, and sadness when they’re triggered. The traumatic experience can come to the forefront of the person’s thoughts when they’re in certain situations or are in their own thoughts. The symptoms of PTSD can be debilitating, and many people turn to drugs or alcohol in order to numb their feelings or find some type of escape. When treating PTSD and substance abuse, it’s important for the person to work with a therapist who understands PTSD and substance abuse. Through individual therapy, the person will be in a safe place where everything is confidential. Here, those suffering are able to freely discuss their past and what happened to them. A certified therapist will work with the individual or a loved one in a one-on-one environment and offer suggestions as to how one can begin the healing process, ultimately helping them in their recovery.
Long-Term Recovery from PTSD and Substance Abuse at Lakeview Health
Lakeview Health is passionate about helping people not only get sober, but stay sober as well. Through dual diagnosis treatment, patients are able to feel confident about their recovery from PTSD and substance abuse when they’re discharged. Although 12-step programs can help with dual diagnosis, it’s important that patients follow up with a professional about their mental health. Lakeview Health ensures patients have a strong discharge plan so they can live healthy, more-fulfilling lives. Call Lakeview Health at 866.704.7692 today to learn more about how we can help.
