To many people, PTSD sounds like a disorder that may only be affecting victims who have experienced harsh war or natural disaster conditions. Yet, according to the National Institute on Mental Health, around 8% of all people will go through PTSD in their lifetime. Those who are suffering are shockingly between two and four times more likely to also battle addiction than their other peers. A recent movie that showcases this effect is “Thank You for Your Service” which highlights the true story of a distraught Iraq War veteran played by actor Miles Teller.
Throughout the movie, he struggles with fighting disturbing flashbacks from the deaths of his fellow soldiers and turns to using drugs frequently to stay sane. It’s highly important for those suffering from these experiences in reality to be able to have education about pursuing the right recovery treatment centers, succeeding in addiction and trauma rehab, and avoiding use of substances like alcohol for anxiety. Having the right tools available and knowing where to implement them in is key, even if it sounds like too much effort to reach out for help in the beginning of the rehab process.
The Long-term Link
When a person goes through stress in a dangerous or extremely stressful situation, brain chemicals are altered as well as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and body temperature in response. Focus and attention levels are spiked from adrenaline, leading to a “fight or flight” response to the danger. The stress left over from this response can continue for a long period of time, causing PTSD symptoms like avoiding people, re-experiencing painful flashbacks, difficulty sleeping or being relaxed, and severe memory issues. Unfortunately, many people turn to using drugs as coping mechanisms to increase dopamine or the “happy feeling”, lower anxiety, and distract themselves. With repeated use, it becomes much harder for their bodies to regulate normal amounts of dopamine, adrenaline, and energy. The withdrawal effects like depression, insomnia, and irritability that comes after the high creates a vicious cycle when PTSD is involved.
Younger brains that are not yet completely developed may be at a much higher risk for developing PTSD as well as drug addiction later in life. A highly stressful environment, their personality, and even genetics play a role in the formation of both disorders in the long term. PTSD and drug use is frequently occurring at the same time as other mental health disorders as well. It’s important to treat both issues simultaneously with experts at a professional recovery treatment center as soon as possible.
Barriers to Treatment
While treating addiction to using drugs and alcohol for anxiety from PTSD is the right choice, getting help immediately isn’t always easy. Veterans in particular face a host of challenges coming back from working, including facing the stigma of seeking rehab. Pursuing a counselor or addiction program can be seen by some as weak or lazy, which lowers a person’s intrinsic motivation to better their health. Other limitations include health care and medication concerns, as not all insurances can cover addiction or PTSD therapy. Additionally, many programs catering to veterans have a very drawn out process for even starting the process of federally funded medical assistance. As a result, most avoid going through the long and irritating process of receiving acknowledgement and an individualized recovery plan for their problems.
Seeking True Help
Contacting a local mental health professional is the best method of starting the process of PTSD and substance abuse recovery. They can guide a young adult, working employee, or retired veteran to specific programs that best suit their lifestyles and addresses their immediate needs. There is no doubt that experiencing both disorders is a burden, but action can be taken to bring about a silver lining. It’s not embarrassing to ask others more experienced in mental health help, as well as admit what you are going through to get answers that will truly help. It’s definitely unavoidable to feel uncomfortable around rehab professionals who are merely strangers in the beginning, but they have your interests at heart. Not all mental health care is as mind numbing and impersonal as the media can make it seem, and often truly professional rehab leaders are eager to invest their energy to see you succeed. Instead of worrying about what others will think about how you are improving your disorders, think of the long term benefits you will reap in your body and mind. Nothing beats having true confidence to step out the door as an substance independent person to go about your day!
