PTSD and Addiction | Links, Symptoms & Treatment

Understanding that PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) comes in various forms with unique symptoms is crucial for anyone affected, whether directly or through a loved one. Recognising these different types helps in identifying the specific signs and facilitates timely intervention, ensuring that appropriate treatment is sought early on.

PTSD can occur in an individual who has experienced even just one of the following traumatic experiences:

• Combat exposure
• Natural disasters
• Serious accidents
• Violence
• Medical incidents
• Childhood trauma
• Sudden loss

There is also research that suggests that PTSD is heritable from family members who’ve been subjected to trauma in their lifetimes.

Some research suggests that children can develop PTSD due to their parent’s symptoms, a phenomenon known as “intergenerational transmission of trauma.” This has been observed in families of WWII Holocaust survivors and combat veterans. Here’s how it happens:

• When a family silences a child or discourages talking about disturbing events, the child’s anxiety increases. They might worry about causing their parent’s symptoms and imagine scenarios worse than reality.
• Parents sharing too many traumatic details can lead to children experiencing their own PTSD symptoms in response to these vivid images.
• A child may mimic their parent’s symptoms as a way to connect with them.
• Children might repeat aspects of the trauma because they see their parents struggling to separate past events from the present.

It’s important to note that others have criticised this type of research in the field, but it still serves a purpose in understanding more about PTSD and its effects on others.

Many different types of addictions have been linked to PTSD, especially as the initial substance taking could have begun as a coping method for dealing with PTSD symptoms.

In fact, a study comprising 587 participants found alarmingly high rates of lifetime dependence on various substances;

• 39% were dependent on alcohol
• 34.1% were dependent on cocaine
• 6.2% were dependent on heroin/opiates
• 44.8% were dependent on marijuana

Notably, the level of substance use, especially cocaine, was strongly correlated with experiences of childhood physical, sexual and emotional abuse, as well as current PTSD symptoms.

The study found that the more types of childhood trauma a person experienced, the stronger their history of cocaine dependence predicted current PTSD symptoms. Importantly, this effect was independent of any trauma experienced in adulthood, underscoring the profound impact of childhood experiences.

These findings reveal strong links between childhood traumatisation and Substance Use Disorders (SUDs), highlighting their joint associations with PTSD outcomes.

Linwood House has a strong track record of treating addiction in individuals with co-occurring disorders like PTSD. However, your PTSD symptoms need to be stable enough for you to engage fully in the rehabilitation process.

Before starting rehab at Linwood House, consult with medical and mental health professionals to manage your PTSD symptoms. This may involve therapy, medication or both. Once your PTSD symptoms are under control, you can begin the rehabilitation process.

Several effective rehab therapies at Linwood House can also help alleviate your PTSD symptoms:

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): DBT is great for managing intense emotions that you may experience alongside PTSD. It equips you with tools to cope with stress, regulate emotions and enhance relationships. DBT can help you manage triggers and combat unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use and addictive behaviours.
• Group therapy: If you’re dealing with both PTSD and addiction, group therapy offers many benefits. It creates a sense of community among people facing similar challenges, providing essential emotional support. As you share experiences and coping strategies, you’ll gain insights and practical advice from others.
• Mindfulness: Practising mindfulness can be a powerful tool in managing both PTSD and addiction. Mindfulness helps you stay grounded in the present moment, reducing anxiety and stress. By focusing on your breathing and being aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgement, you can better manage your emotions and reduce the impact of triggers.

If you’re dealing with PTSD and addiction, Linwood House is here to support you. Our comprehensive treatment programme offers personalised care to address both issues together. With our experienced team and holistic therapies, you’ll receive the support and healing you need. Take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future with Linwood House. Your path to recovery and well-being starts here.