Therefore, it is completely understandable that we would use drinking to get some relief from all of these feelings. When faced with traumatic situations, the “fight or flight” glands in our brain (otherwise known as the hypothalamus and the amygdala) trigger a natural and protective response. The amygdala produces more adrenaline, and the hypothalamus gland increases alcoholism heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and muscle tension. When faced with future stressful situations, the brain is more likely to trigger an intense fight-or-flight response. This is because after being subjected to a traumatic event, we become more likely to perceive and react to new stressors in the same way.
Recognizing the Signs of Alcohol Abuse in Individuals with PTSD
Alcohol acts as a depressant, affecting the brain’s neurotransmitters and exacerbating feelings of sadness and hopelessness. For individuals with PTSD, who already experience intense emotions and struggle with mood regulation, alcohol can intensify these negative feelings, leading to a heightened risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation. Over time, alcohol use can deepen the cycle of trauma and addiction, making it even more difficult to find relief without professional support.
Challenges in Treating Alcoholism and PTSD
Certain medications can reduce the pleasure of alcohol or drugs, reduce cravings, and also help withdrawal symptoms. Therapies designed for PTSD, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), are highly effective. However, alcohol use can interfere with these therapies by impairing cognitive function and emotional processing. This section provides an overview of commonly used definitions and how they have changed over time. The behavioral and physiological similarities between learned helplessness in animals and ptsd and alcohol abuse patients with PTSD suggest that learned helplessness is a good model to understand PTSD (see Foa et al. 1992 for a review).
- If you’ve been walking on eggshells, dealing with outbursts, or living in fear, you may have your own trauma to work through.
- Although we are never to blame for undergoing trauma, feelings of shame and guilt can still arise.
- For those looking for dual diagnosis treatment centers in Washington state, Discover Recovery provides premier care for individuals facing PTSD and substance use challenges.
Are veterans seeking treatment for PTSD and alcohol addiction eligible for specialized care?
There is a significant correlation between PTSD and substance abuse, particularly alcohol use. Many people with PTSD turn to alcohol as a form of self-medication, attempting to numb the emotional pain and distress caused by their traumatic experiences. Another crucial aspect to consider is the level of support available to individuals following a traumatic event. Having a strong support system, whether it be friends, family, or mental health professionals, can greatly impact a person’s ability https://faumart.com/what-are-the-signs-of-having-a-problem-with-drugs/ to cope with and recover from trauma. Supportive relationships can provide comfort, understanding, and validation, which are essential for healing and resilience.
- This study strongly suggests that alcohol-dependent patients with co-occurring PTSD should receive medications targeting alcohol consumption.
- Moreover, heavy drinking can worsen PTSD symptoms, leading to a higher risk of relapse.
- As a prescriber, I have a limited number of arrows in my pharmacologic quiver.
Yes, veterans have higher rates of PTSD and alcohol use disorder compared to the general population. The number of veterans seeking treatment for co-occurring PTSD and substance use disorder has increased by at least 300% in recent years. If you went through one or more traumatic events and have symptoms for a month or more, you may have PTSD. You can answer 5 questions—a PTSD self-screen—that can help you find out if your feelings and behaviors may be related to PTSD. There is also a brief alcohol and substance use problem questionnaire you can fill out if you are concerned about your substance use.
