Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of mental health disorder that occurs when traumatic experiences create intense memories and negative behaviors. Many people with this condition develop an addiction. If that sounds like what is happening to you, don’t put off getting the care you need. At BroadPrep Recovery Center, we’re here to support you through the process of healing. Contact us today at 866.796.4720 to learn more about our treatment programs.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is an intense mental health disorder. It can occur when a person experiences a traumatic event that the brain does not process and manage appropriately. As a result, the individual feels intense emotions and stress about that traumatic experience on an ongoing basis. Sometimes you may not think about it, but something is bothering you. Other times, you may have flashbacks or images, sounds, thoughts, or other experiences that bring back these experiences again. You may feel as though you are reliving the condition.
People can develop PTSD from a range of sources. These sources may include:
- Sexual trauma
- Physical violence
- Emotional abuse
- Watching someone close to them die
- Domestic violence
- Wartime experiences
It’s not always possible to know what type of traumatic event can trigger this type of response in some people and not others. Yet, because the trauma is not properly addressed, it can lead to numerous health complications over time. It can also cause addiction.
How Does PTSD Lead to Drug and Alcohol Abuse?
It does not happen to everyone. However, for those who have PTSD, dealing with the symptoms and complications from this condition can be very hard to manage over time. You may find yourself unable to stop the memories, as well as the depression and anxiety that accompany these thoughts. For some people, this leads to the onset of drinking or using drugs.
Using these substances can appear to help a person to stop experiencing symptoms. They may help you to focus on what’s happening not rather than your memories. They also help you to feel more carefree. Sometimes, people who have an addiction and PTSD find it difficult to not use because they are hit with many emotions that are difficult to process when they do.
How Can Addiction and Mental Health Be Treated?
The good news is that if you are dealing with addiction and mental health disorders like PTSD, there is help. Dual diagnosis treatment is a type of treatment option that deals with both conditions at the same time. This treatment can help you to deal with your addiction and dependence on drugs or alcohol. It also allows you to get help for the trauma that occurred in your life. You are not likely to have to relive what you’ve experienced, but you will learn to break the emotional pain connection that this condition brings to you.
How Can You Get Help for Addiction and PTSD?
Our team is here to help you with a range of programs and services, including dual diagnosis treatment. Our team will work closely with you to understand what’s occurring and why. After a full assessment, you’ll be able to start working on healing both the addiction and any mental health disorders you have. It’s important for you to know that you don’t have to continue to live like this. Learn more about our programs, including:
- Substance abuse treatment programs
- Mental health treatment programs
- Medical detox programs
- Partial hospitalization program
- Outpatient treatment programs
Take Charge of Your Future by Calling BoardPrep Recovery Center® Today
Do you believe you have PTSD? Are you unsure of what your first step is? Let our team help you with mental health and addiction support. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Our team is dedicated to helping you to create the best quality of life possible. To learn more about BoardPrep Recovery Center®, call us at 866.796.4720 or connect online now.