If you’re struggling with the after-effects of trauma, it’s not uncommon to turn to alcohol to cope. While alcohol might provide temporary relief, it can also lead to a dangerous cycle of addiction and dependence. This is especially true for people struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol abuse. The connection between the two is complex and can be difficult to untangle, but with help from a trusted treatment center like Texas Recovery Center, recovery is possible.
Our PTSD treatment center specializes in helping individuals who are struggling with PTSD and alcohol abuse. Patients here build healthy coping skills, learn to manage triggers, and work through underlying trauma with the help of our experienced team.
Ready to learn more or get started? Call 888.298.5468 today.
How PTSD Develops
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often occurs after a very distressing event or prolonged extreme stress. It can be caused by things like war, disasters, violence, or accidents. Some people can also get PTSD from seeing these things happen to others. PTSD is different for everyone. We don’t know why some people get it while others don’t, even if they went through similar things. Things like personality, past trauma, and genes may all have a role.
After a traumatic event, it’s normal to feel fear, anxiety, and distress. Most people start feeling better after a while, but those with PTSD keep feeling these intense emotions for months or even years. It really affects their daily lives.
Anyone can develop PTSD, no matter their age. This includes veterans, kids, and people who have been through violent crimes. Understanding PTSD is the first step in recognizing the link between PTSD and alcohol abuse, especially in veterans.
How PTSD and Alcohol Abuse Are Connected
People with PTSD have higher rates of alcohol abuse and addiction than the general population. The reasons for this connection are complex and can vary from person to person.
For some, alcohol use may be a way to cope with the distressing symptoms of PTSD, such as nightmares, flashbacks, and anxiety. It provides temporary relief, but in the long run, it can lead to a dangerous cycle of dependence and addiction.
Some of the signs that alcohol use is becoming a problem include:
- Drinking to cope with PTSD symptoms
- Using alcohol as a way to numb emotions or escape memoriesIncreased tolerance and needing more alcohol to feel the same effects
- Difficulty cutting back or stopping alcohol use despite negative consequences
For others, drinking may have been a contributing factor in their traumatic event. This can lead to feelings of guilt and shame, which can then fuel alcohol abuse as a way to self-medicate.
For veterans specifically, the connection between PTSD and alcohol abuse is even more prevalent. Many have been exposed to traumatic events during their service, leading to high rates of PTSD. And unfortunately, due to the culture and stigma surrounding mental health in the military, many turn to alcohol as a way to cope instead of seeking proper treatment.
Call Today for PTSD and Alcohol Addiction Treatment from Texas Recovery Center
No matter the cause, it’s important to address both PTSD and alcohol abuse together to achieve lasting recovery. At Texas Recovery Center, we offer comprehensive treatment programs that address both conditions simultaneously.
Our team of professionals understands the unique challenges of treating co-occurring disorders like PTSD and alcohol abuse. We use evidence-based therapies and techniques to help patients heal from trauma, develop healthy coping skills, and overcome addiction.
Call 888.298.5468 or reach out to our team online today to learn more about our treatment options and how we can help. Recovery is possible, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
