PTSD relates to addiction in two ways. First, the symptoms of PTSD can put addiction into motion to begin with. Secondly, PTSD can also impact treatment.
How the symptoms of PTSD can put addiction in motion
The symptoms of PTSD can put addiction into motion. When an individual has experienced a traumatic experience, it can seem like almost anything can remind them of it. Part of the pain of PTSD is wanting to forget and being unable to.
Additionally, alcohol can affect the ability to remember. It is not surprising then, that according to the US Department of Veteran Affairs, ¾ of people with PTSD are also diagnosed with alcoholism. It can also help them feel numb to things that remind them of the event, or triggers.
How treatment can be impacted by the symptoms of PTSD
Seeking out substances can be a dangerous activity in itself. This can lead to experiencing several traumatic events, resulting in an extra resistant form of PTSD, called complex PTSD (cPTSD). However, our talented and caring staff know that with the right spiritual, medical, and psychological help, our treatment can help you on your way to recovery from trauma.
PTSD can also impact treatment. Those with PTSD may feel very tired most of the time. They may spend a lot of time sleeping or otherwise resting, because their brain is trying to make sense of these painful memories. They often feel confused, and not entirely sure about what they are confused about. This leads to a sense of brain fog. Feeling like this can make someone feel hopeless and unable to trust, as if everything is too much. We understand these feelings and know they are the seeds to growing back the self you once knew. Our talented staff at our beautiful Olympia House facility will work with you every step of the way, whether you are tired, angry, or finally feeling a precious hope return to you. It is our honor to assist you.