Treatment for PTSD and addiction is often a multidisciplinary endeavor that focuses on preventing relapse and resolving the causes of the two conditions. During an inpatient stay, the patient lives on the inpatient facility's premises. Inpatient programs provide patients with therapy and counseling while separating them from trauma-related triggers. They may also undergo psychiatric treatments and medical maintenance. Aftercare planning is another important aspect of inpatient care. Outpatient treatment includes relapse prevention, therapy, education classes, counseling, and support groups. Group counseling can focus on social skills and coping mechanisms.
Traumatic experiences can affect the chemical balance of the brain, making it more susceptible to the effects of alcohol and drugs. These substances reduce the production of endorphins, which are the chemicals in our bodies that make us feel good. As a result, individuals suffering from PTSD are more likely to abuse substances that affect these chemicals, such as dopamine. When combined with an addiction, these symptoms may be much more severe than when they exist alone. One is advised to get ptsd treatment before ones health becomes unbearable.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, teaches patients how to correct their memories and feelings and learn to cope with difficult emotions. This therapy also teaches patients how to develop healthy coping skills that can replace addictive behaviors. Other treatments are available, such as electroconvulsive therapy. The main goal is to improve a patient's overall well-being and decrease their risk of relapse. They may also use medications to address the symptoms of PTSD.
Exposure therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, focuses on addressing the underlying feelings and patterns that are contributing to the patient's problematic behaviors and thoughts. Other therapies incorporate equine therapy, yoga, and acupuncture. Another treatment option is prolonged exposure therapy, which aims to re-experience the traumatic event in a safe environment. During the exposure therapy, the patient is exposed to a visual or verbal representation of the event that triggered the PTSD symptoms. The process is usually progressive, beginning slowly and increasing the amount of exposure to the traumatic event.
Combined treatments for PTSD and addiction may result in a better overall health. Regardless of the underlying cause, these treatments may help the patient overcome their addiction and cope with their symptoms. They will reduce the occurrence of addictive behaviors, and may even reduce the risk of relapse. When the symptoms of addiction have become too severe, a therapist may prescribe medication that can alleviate their discomfort. Some patients experience a physical withdrawal from substances altogether.
Often, people with PTSD create a negative space inside drugs and alcohol. This self-medication often leads to unmanageable lives. They are more likely to engage in risky behaviors while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They may face legal issues, poverty, and unemployment. And their underlying problem has no immediate solution. So, it is vital that they find a treatment that addresses both PTSD and addiction together. To overcome the drug issue which may lead to more underlying problems in your system visit va alcohol rehab center.
Get a general overview of the topic here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complex_post-traumatic_stress_disorder.
