The relationship between PTSD, post traumatic stress disorder, and substance misuse is not without recognition. In order to cope with high amounts of stress and difficult emotions in living with PTSD, people turn to drugs and alcohol with numb their pain- both emotional and physical. Mental illness of any kind has been proven to increase the likelihood of substance misuse as a form of maladaptive coping as well as a result of compromised cognitive function, i.e. decision making. Just recently, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Of Mental Disorders, widely regarded as an authority on mental disorders, has added “reckless and self-destructive behavior” as a symptom of PTSD. When “reckless and self-destructive behavior” is present as one symptom of PTSD, it could worsen other symptoms of PTSD. Other symptoms of PTSD can include:
Agitation
Hyperarousal
Hypervigilance
Social isolation and difficulties
Hallucinations
Flashbacks
Anxiety
Depression
Toxic guilt
Insomnia
Night terrors
Intrusive thoughts
Emotional detachment
For many, unfortunately, the close connection between PTSD and substance misuse is not known. People consider their substance misuse to be separate from their experience of trauma. On the other hand, people may blatantly know that they are misusing substances to cope with their trauma, but may be unaware of the fact that their substance misuse could be worsening their other symptoms of trauma.
The treatment industry is well aware of the harmful effect a dual diagnosis of PTSD and substance misuse can have on an individual. Alcohol, and many drug substances, are depressants, which can worsen thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or depression. Other drug substances are stimulants, which can worsen anxiety, hyperarousal, and insomnia, which can have a string of other effects. Treating substance misuse and PTSD concurrently is referred to as dual diagnosis or co-occurring treatment. Dual diagnosis treatment is essential to making sure all symptoms which contribute to harmful behaviors are effectively assessed and healed. Patients need to be given the tools to cope with all of their symptoms in a sustainable way which promotes healthy living and abstinence from drugs and alcohol.
Smarmore Castle does not ‘treat’ dual diagnosis, we manage and support co-occuring mental health conditions while treating addiction. If you are looking for specialist dual-addiction treatment for PTSD and Addiction, our sister clinic Castle Craig in Scotland might be another option to consider.
