Many people around the world suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and there are many underlying factors that contribute to this disorder - especially for our veterans. Addiction is also very common amongst veterans struggling with PTSD. This disorder often occurs after an individual has experienced an extremely traumatic situation such as physical or sexual assault, natural disaster, terrorist attack, combat, etc. PTSD can also be caused by simply witnessing one of these traumatic events or even experiencing the loss of a friend or family member. Here are many ways that veterans struggling with PTSD become addicted to drugs or alcohol in order to cope.
PTSD in Veterans
In order to understand why individuals may self medicate with drugs and alcohol in order to cope with PTSD, one must first understand the complex nature of this disorder. PTSD is not your average stress and anxiety that may provoke irritability and discomfort. PTSD often results in an individual not feeling emotions towards things they used to love, avoiding potential triggers, people, places, and even items that may remind the individual of his/her past. The irritability an individual often experiences with general anxiety is amplified and absolutely exasperated for individuals struggling with PTSD. Finally, the individual will often experience flashbacks, nightmares, and the inability to find healing unless they seek professional help.
PTSD can be caused by combat as well as physical abuse or experiencing extremely dangerous situations. Veterans are exposed to many high stress and oftentimes traumatic events that make these individuals susceptible to struggling with PTSD and potentially struggling with substance abuse disorder.
PTSD in Veterans and Addiction
Any type of change or transition in life is oftentimes challenging and stressful. However, for individuals who have served in the military, this can be exceptionally difficult. When serving in the military, individuals have structure, discipline, order, and a sense of duty and purpose on a daily basis. All of these things sound admirable but civilization as we know it can be very chaotic, unpredictable, and lacking in the structure and order that these men and women are prone to. Also, many veterans must go out into “normal life” and find new friends, jobs, housing, and navigate through all of the services that used to be provided by the military. This entire shift in lifestyle would be difficult for anyone, especially those struggling with PTSD.
In order to cope with the challenges and PTSD, many veterans are often prescribed anxiety medications as well as antidepressants. Some veterans may also be prescribed pain medications to mitigate active-duty injuries. Unfortunately, many of the prescriptions prescribed can be highly addictive. Not to mention, many veterans may turn to social drinking as a way of socializing and attempting to mitigate the symptoms of PTSD. As the symptoms of PTSD increase, many of our veterans find themselves trapped in the vicious cycle of their co-occurring disorders.
PTSD & Addiction Treatment Options for Veterans
With PTSD in veterans and addiction, there are many available options for treatment. However, the most beneficial types of treatment are often found within a dual diagnosis treatment center. This level of care will help connect veterans to the necessary services they may need in not only addressing his/her addiction but the individual’s underlying PTSD. People with PTSD often have a much harder time overcoming their addiction simply due to the fact that many feel the need to run away from reality as they become overwhelmed with fear. If you happen to know any veteran struggling with transitioning - acknowledge their struggles and show your gratitude for their service by helping them in any way you can.
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