Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that develops in an individual after they experience extreme stress and anxiety, or are caught up in a particularly traumatic event. For instance, any psychologically or physically traumatic event which leaves a person feeling a lack of control, vulnerable, and powerless can result in the development of PTSD.
Commonly reported cases of PTSD have come about after an individual experienced one of the following:
- Natural disaster
- Sexual assault
- Military combat
- Violent assault
- Childhood abuse
People with PTSD tend to abuse alcohol and/or drugs as a way to self-medicate and suppress their fears. Though the ways in which each patient experiences PTSD may vary, commonly witnessed symptoms of the illness include: flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, avoiding anything related to the traumatic event, angry outbursts, sleeplessness, and aggressive behaviour.
After a person suffers a traumatic experience, a reduced production of endorphins can occur in the brain. Endorphins are brain chemicals that contribute to making a person feel happy. If a person is suffering from PTSD, the brain produces less endorphins; thereafter, that person will have trouble feeling pleasure or happiness and could turn to alcohol or other mood-enhancing substances to feel good. With continued use of such substances (that increase endorphin levels), the brain will adapt and become dependent on the influences of the substance to regulate endorphin production and for relief.
Fortunately, co-occurring disorders like PTSD and addiction are treatable. To get the help needed for either you or a loved one, call us call today on 0203 553 9263.
Signs and Symptoms
People suffering from PTSD and addiction need to get help as soon as possible, before irreversible damage is done to their physical or psychological health. In order to identify whether a loved one needs professional help with addiction and PTSD, look out for the following symptoms:
- Night terrors about the event
- Repeated flashbacks of the traumatic event
- Being incapable of positive emotions
- Avoiding thinking or talking about the traumatic episode
- Avoiding reminders of the traumatic episode
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Emotional numbness
- Extreme physical reactions to reminders of the traumatic event
- Difficulty maintaining close relationships
- Self-destructive behaviour (binge drinking, reckless driving etc.)
- Lapses in memory
- Overwhelming guilt or shame
- Trouble concentrating
If a loved one is displaying two or more of the above following a traumatic event, please contact us immediately on 0203 553 9263 for professional assistance.
Short-Term Effects
The short-term effects of PTSD and addiction will vary from person to person. Some will develop self-destructive behaviours, while others will become increasingly violent or more isolated from others. Substance abuse will only worsen these effects and can lead to a worsening psychological state.
Withdrawal Symptoms
The withdrawal symptoms of PTSD and substance addiction can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Feeling empty inside (or sad and lonely)
- Irritability or restlessness
- Lack of motivation
- Obsessive thoughts
- Difficulty concentrating on other tasks
- Impatience and angry outbursts
- Difficulty with social interactions
- Uncontrollable or variable feelings and mood swings
- Having trouble sleeping or even sleeping too much
- Crying
- Headaches
- Nausea
Recovery Treatment
We strongly recommend a minimum of 28 days rehabilitation. In this time, you will be treated psychologically, emotionally, and spiritually. Our specialist programmes include:
- One-to-one Counselling
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
- Group Therapy
- Fitness and Massage
- Yoga & Meditation
- Music & Art therapy
- Process Addiction
- Holistic Programme
- Mindfulness and Acupuncture
- Relapse Prevention Techniques
Rehab Benefits
PTSD and addiction treatment in our private rehab centre comes with a variety of benefits, some of which include:
- Be in a safe and nurturing environment
- Medical drug detox and/or medical alcohol detox with 24/7 care & support
- Overcome the root causes of addiction
- Experienced team of doctors & therapists
- Personalised rehabilitation programme
- Look, feel, sleep better & regain confidence
- Learn techniques for relapse prevention
- 1 year complimentary aftercare support
Get Help Today
Early treatment of PTSD and addiction is key to recovery. This is because for every moment treatment is delayed, the problem will likely only worsen. If you or a loved one have PTSD and an addiction, we can help. Our rehab is CQC regulated and we have helped many individuals retake control of their lives.
Call our confidential helpline today by dialling 0203 553 9263 to get started on the safe and effective path to recovery.