Drug and alcohol abuse develop in some as they attempt to manage these responses. Treatment of PTSD Fortunately PTSD can be effectively treated. Behavior therapy may play a useful role by helping modify the way a patient acts and reducing avoidance behavior. Behavior therapy is often combined with cognitive therapy, which is intended to change underlying thought patterns. These approaches may be used in a group or in an individual setting.
Family therapy can help close relatives understand and cope with the illness.
Through such counseling, family members can learn that any apparent rejection by a relative with PTSD is the result of the disorder. Family counseling can repair communications and help restore normal interaction. Support groups of individuals who experience PTSD can show victims that their reactions to trauma are shared by many. By discussing common experiences and emotions, groups of survivors can help each other rebuild confidence. Medication can be a valuable complement to other treatment by relieving many of the most debilitating symptoms, and enabling other therapy to go forward.