Self-medicating with alcohol is a common coping mechanism for those struggling with mental health issues. It’s only natural to want to feel relief from emotional pain, but turning to alcohol can potentially worsen the underlying issues and create new problems. It can lead to a dangerous spiral of increased alcohol consumption and potentially deadly health consequences.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol and PTSD, or any other mental health issue, BoardPrep Recovery Center®’s alcohol rehab center in Florida can help. Contact us at 866.796.4720 today to learn about how we can help you stop self-medicating with alcohol. A brighter. and healthier future is possible.
Why Do People Self-Medicate?
Self-medicating with alcohol is often a way to temporarily numb or escape from difficult emotions and traumatic experiences. While it may provide temporary relief, it ultimately does not address the root causes of the emotional pain and can lead to dependency and addiction.
Self-medicating with alcohol can also be a way to avoid getting professional help for mental health issues. It can be intimidating to admit that there is a problem, but seeking treatment from a professional is the best way to address the underlying issues and heal.
Some reasons why a person may self-medicate with alcohol are:
- Lack of awareness or access to mental health resources
- Stigma surrounding mental illness
- Fear of facing and addressing difficult emotions
- Feelings of shame or guilt
The Link Between Alcohol and PTSD
The connection between alcohol and trauma is well-documented, with many individuals who have experienced trauma turning to alcohol as a means of coping. Alcohol can provide a temporary escape from the negative thoughts and emotions associated with traumatic experiences. PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
Self-medicating with alcohol can ultimately worsen symptoms of PTSD. The side effects of alcohol can interfere with the ability to process and heal from trauma, leading to increased avoidance behaviors and worsening symptoms such as flashbacks. It can also lead to an increased risk of dangerous or risky behaviors and negative consequences in relationships and daily functioning.
Risks of Self-Medicating with Alcohol
Self-medicating with alcohol can lead to a dangerous cycle of increased alcohol consumption, worsening mental health symptoms, and potentially deadly health consequences.
Some risks include:
- Increased tolerance and dependency
- Interference with medication for mental health issues
- Worsening PTSD symptoms
- Risk of alcohol poisoning or overdose
- Increased risk of accidents or injury
- Strained relationships
- Health problems such as liver disease, heart disease, and diabetes
Finding Help for Self-Medicating with Alcohol
It can be difficult to admit that you or a loved one may have a problem with self-medicating with alcohol, but seeking help is the first step towards healing and recovery.
Treatment for self-medicating with alcohol often includes addressing the underlying mental health issues, managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, learning healthy coping skills, and developing a strong support network.
At BoardPrep Recovery Center®’s alcohol rehab center in Florida, we offer dual diagnosis treatment for individuals struggling with both alcohol addiction and PTSD or other mental health issues. Our experienced and compassionate team is dedicated to helping you or your loved one heal and achieve long-term sobriety.
Some of the programs and services we offer include:
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP) with housing for health professionals
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP) for health professionals
- Treatment programs for professionals
- Rehab for young adults (18+)
- PHP with housing for adults
- Outpatient rehab For adults
- Substance abuse treatment programs
- Alcohol rehab program
- Alcohol detox
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy program
- Dialectical behavior therapy program
- Holistic therapy programs
Stop Self-Medicating with Alcohol with BoardPrep Recovery Center®’s Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with self-medicating with alcohol, it’s important to seek professional help. At BoardPrep Recovery Center®, we can provide the support and resources necessary for healing and long-term sobriety. Contact us today at 866.796.4720 for more information about our treatment options.
