PTSD and substance use are very common in the U.S., as many people think they can self-medicate to feel better without working on the underlying reason behind the abuse. Returning from war can be very traumatic for many of our brave soldiers. The stress of wartime and returning to civilian life can be overwhelming and lead many veterans to use drugs or alcohol to cope. A veterans addiction treatment center can help stop the abuse before causing permanent physical or mental harm.
At True Self Recovery, we welcome veterans who are struggling with addiction to alcohol, heroin, or other substances caused by post-traumatic stress disorder. We take the time to get to know each patient and their unique experiences and family history to uncover the root cause of the addiction and begin the healing process. Discover all of the benefits of our veterans’ addiction therapy by calling (888) 596-2608 or filling out our online form today, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
Understanding the Relationship Between PTSD and Substance Use
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a common type of anxiety caused by a single or reoccurring traumatic experience. Soldiers returning from the Vietnam war were the first to be diagnosed with PTSD, but non-military members can also struggle with it for various reasons. Some of the common causes of PTSD include:
- A serious car accident
- Wartime/Current affairs
- Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- The sudden loss of a loved one
- Natural disasters
- COVID-19
- Gender or sexual confusion
Instead of seeking professional help, most people turn to drugs and alcohol to self-medicate. They may think they are helping themselves, but the reality is they are only worsening their mental health and causing a chemical dependence on their drug of choice.
At True Self Recovery, we work with veterans and non-veterans alike who are struggling with PTSD and substance abuse at our full-service treatment center. We take the time to build trust and open communication with each patient so they feel comfortable opening up about their traumatic past and start working on true healing.
The Benefits of Treating PTSD and Substance Abuse
Enrolling in a substance use disorder program offers several benefits, especially when the addiction is fueled by another mental health disorder. Many treatment centers specialize in co-occurring disorders caused by PTSD, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, and other illnesses.
Just some of the benefits of treating PTSD and substance use include:
- Behavioral therapy – Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of the most widely used forms of treatment in addiction therapy. It focuses on helping patients uncover the root cause of the addiction and learn how to face those feelings and emotions without needing more drugs or alcohol. Therapists teach patients healthy coping skills to manage their symptoms and cravings and how to appropriately communicate how they feel.
- Medication-assisted treatment – To reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, medical staff will administer medication that is proven to be effective during addiction recovery. These medications will minimize the common side effects of withdrawals as well as any depression or anxiety symptoms. As withdrawals and cravings fade, medical staff will taper you off the medication to avoid any withdrawals. Most people will be 100% drug-free by the end of the treatment program.
- Co-occurring disorder treatment – This type of therapy focuses on treating PTSD, depression, and other disorders that are causing the addiction. Research shows that between 10-20% of veterans return with PTSD and are more likely to treat their symptoms with drugs or alcohol.
- Family therapy – Another beneficial therapy during addiction recovery is family therapy. Parents, spouses, and children will be included in the recovery process to teach them about the dangers of addiction, work out any pent-up feelings or anger, and learn how to create a stable and sober home environment.
Treating PTSD and substance abuse at the same time gives men and women the best chances of recovery and maintaining lifelong sobriety. The skills they learn while in recovery promote a healthy lifestyle and go a long way toward improving their future happiness.
Find Veterans Addiction Therapy at True Self Recovery
You can find comprehensive PTSD and substance use disorder treatment at True Self Recovery before the addiction causes serious harm to yourself and your loved ones. Our facility is fully accredited and uses the latest therapies and medication to create a well-rounded alcohol and drug rehab program for veterans that addresses all aspects of addiction. As you progress through the program, we will adjust your plan so that you reach your recovery goals in a time frame that is best suited for your symptoms.
If you or a friend are struggling with addiction and ready to accept help, contact us at (888) 596-2608 today to speak with one of our friendly staff.
