PTSD & Addiction: What You Need to Know

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders are strongly linked, with individuals with PTSD being significantly more likely to experience addiction. Substance use often begins as a form of self-medication to cope with trauma triggers and overwhelming emotions, which can resurface intensely during sobriety. Effective recovery involves integrated, trauma-informed care and strategies like seeking professional help for co-occurring disorders, developing coping skills, and practicing self-care.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can feel like an invisible weight, especially when you’re also navigating the complexities of drug and alcohol recovery. It’s crucial to understand that you’re not alone. Those with PTSD are two to four times more likely to experience a substance use disorder. Recognizing the connection between these challenges is the first step toward healing.

Understanding PTSD Symptoms

Post-traumatic stress can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It’s more than just remembering something bad; it’s a condition that can significantly impact your daily life. Common PTSD symptoms include

• Intrusive thoughts: These can manifest as unwanted memories, nightmares, or flashbacks, making you feel like the trauma is happening again.
• Avoidance: You might find yourself avoiding places, people, or things that remind you of the trauma.
• Negative changes in mood and thinking: This can involve feeling emotionally numb, having negative beliefs about yourself or the world, or losing interest in activities you once enjoyed. Emotional numbness can be a particularly isolating symptom.
• Hyperarousal: This involves feeling constantly on edge, easily startled, and having difficulty sleeping or concentrating. Hypervigilance becomes your default state.

The Link Between Trauma and Addiction

Many people struggling with addiction have experienced trauma. The link between childhood trauma and addiction is particularly strong, with a large number of individuals in recovery reporting experiences of abuse or neglect. Often, substance use begins as self-medication, an attempt to cope with overwhelming emotions and trauma triggers. Understanding this connection is vital for successful relapse prevention.

PTSD in Recovery

Why do I feel more anxious now that I’m sober? Sobriety can bring underlying PTSD symptoms to the surface. What was once suppressed by substances can now feel overwhelming. It’s important to differentiate between a craving and a flashback. Is it a flashback or just a craving? Flashbacks feel like reliving the trauma, while cravings are intense desires for the substance.

Treatment and Coping with PTSD and Addiction

The best therapy for dual diagnosis PTSD and addiction or alcoholism often involves integrated approaches. Trauma-informed care is essential, meaning that your treatment team understands the impact of trauma and tailors your care accordingly.

Here are some strategies for managing PTSD in recovery:

• Seek professional help: Look for therapists specializing in co-occurring disorders and Dual diagnosis.
• Develop coping skills: Learn healthy ways to manage trauma triggers and intense emotions.
• Practice self-care: Engage in activities that promote wellbeing, such as exercise, mindfulness, or spending time in nature. Consider holistic coping skills for trauma and addiction.

Remember, recovery from both PTSD and addiction is possible. Acknowledge your struggles, seek support, and be patient with yourself. You deserve to heal. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse and PTSD, Mountainside can help. We offer individualized and comprehensive treatment that meets people where they are. Speak with an admissions specialist today to discover your options!