The Link Between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Drug Use

Research appears to be establishing a strong link between PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and drug abuse, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. PTSD is recognized as an anxiety disorder that has been commonly associated with trauma induced by military combat. It is now accepted that exposure to terrifying ordeals where grave danger was experienced or threatened can produce this disorder in non-combat experiences as well. PTSD can be induced in people of any age, including children and adolescents. PTSD symptoms include:

• Emotional numbness
• Sleep problems
• Exaggerated startle response
• Hyper-vigilance
• Avoidance of memory triggers

From PTSD to Substance Abuse

In most instances, the substance abuse begins after the PTSD occurs. This establishes PTSD as a predictor of later drug abuse. In fact, the evidence so far suggests that fully 30-60 percent of those with drug abuse problems may also meet criteria for comorbid PTSD. Importantly, it appears that substance abusers tend to have more significant PTSD symptoms than those without substance abuse disorders.

Intervention and Treatment

Emerging evidence of this link highlights the need for early intervention when children experience or witness a traumatic event. Successful intervention can improve the chances of substance abuse being avoided later on. Treatment methods that have been proven effective include:

• Exposure therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Eye movement desensitization
• Support of family and friends
• Holistic therapies

Exposure therapy

In the case of exposure therapy, the individual, under controlled conditions, relives a frightening experience. The exposure to the simulated conditions is gradual and repetitive. Exposure therapy is most effective when it is administered by a properly trained therapist. Specifically, PTSD and comorbid cocaine addiction have been successfully treated with exposure therapy. One recent study demonstrated that significant reductions in both cocaine use and PTSD symptoms were achieved with exposure therapy.

Medication

Physicians have also found certain antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications such as sertraline (Zoloft™) to be effective in treatment. Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have been utilized as well. The effectiveness of such medications is attributed to the common simultaneous appearance of PTSD, anxiety, and/or depression and substance abuse.

Support

Virtually every treatment regimen appears to further benefit when consistent support is offered by both friends and family. Such support commonly plays a key role in recovery.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Traditional cognitive therapy techniques have been used in the treatment of PTSD. The effectiveness of such therapy has been noted by the Department of Veterans Affairs, for example.

Eye Movement Desensitization

This relatively new technique was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 80s. The desensitization techniques combine with reprocessing to reduce PTSD symptoms. Nonetheless, detoxification of comorbid persons will often require inpatient treatment. This allows professionals to simultaneously address both, withdrawal and PTSD arousal triggers.

A Holistic approach

An ideal approach can be a holistic drug rehabilitation approach. Elements of the aforementioned treatments can be combined to better treat the entire person. Nutritious food, physical exercise, acupuncture, and meditation can further enhance success. Highly individualized courses of treatment can often improve the results achieved by a holistic approach. The absolute need for those facing multiple issues, such as PTSD and drug abuse, is for life-long recovery. This demands true comprehensive treatment that restores the balance of mind, body, and spirit. Treatment of the whole being can increase self-esteem, thus addressing the emptiness inside the individual that often drives the addictive behavior in the first place. Meta: The link between post-traumatic stress disorder and drug use is that many use drugs in order to cope with their post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.