Life has a way of throwing the unexpected at every turn. It is expected that more than three-quarters of the population will suffer a traumatic event in their lifetime. For many, trauma is the catalyst for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
A serious mental condition, PTSD manifests as severe anxiety and nightmares. If left untreated without a trauma therapy program, PTSD can lead to substance abuse and addiction as sufferers seek a way to improve and even circumvent their symptoms. Self-medication with drugs and alcohol is a common outcome for those looking for relief.
The mental health experts at Atlanta Center for Mental Health understand the impact that trauma can have on a person’s life. To learn more about PTSD and how to alleviate symptoms, reach out to an admissions agent today at 833.625.0458.
The PTSD And Substance Abuse Connection
People who are suffering from PTSD are three times as likely to abuse substances. In an attempt to alleviate the symptoms of the disorder, they may turn to drugs or alcohol. Unfortunately, it is like putting a band-aid on a wound as a temporary solution. The symptoms remain after the effects of the substance are long gone.
Signs and symptoms that a person who has experienced trauma is suffering from PTSD may include:
- Extreme irritability
- Quick to anger
- Difficulty sleeping
- Lack of focus
- Reliving the trauma in nightmares and flashbacks
Sufferers may develop negative thoughts of themselves and express hopelessness about their future. Turning to drugs or alcohol may be a temporary distraction that could have disastrous long-term effects as the body becomes dependent on the substances to function. The sufferer may be looking for a solution to their PTSD, unknowingly causing more harm than good to their overall wellbeing.
At Atlanta Center for Mental Health, the trained mental health professionals understand the co-occurrence of PTSD and substance abuse and have designed programs and services with the patient in mind. Reach out to an admissions agent today to learn how a PTSD treatment center may be the right place for you by calling 833.625.0458.
How Can Mental Health Treatment Help?
Behind every traumatic event is a person who needs to talk about it. Mental health treatment options create an ideal environment for patients to speak openly and freely about their experiences. Therapists and peers serve as a support system for the victim to share his or her feelings and emotions in a safe environment without fear of judgment or shame.
As self-medication is common among sufferers and addiction is prevalent, medication management is available to provide medical detoxification if necessary.
Mental health therapy to treat both PTSD and substance addiction may include:
Learn More About PTSD and Substance Abuse Treatment in Atlanta, Georgia
You may be thinking, “where can I go to treat my substance addiction and PTSD?” Because these two mental health conditions commonly manifest together, a treatment plan for these co-occurring disorders is typically also developed simultaneously.
At Atlanta Center for Mental Health, every patient is evaluated to determine the root cause of their mental health disorder, and a treatment plan is designed to treat their specific needs.
If you or a loved one has experienced trauma and suffers from PTSD, look no further to find a solution to the problem. Mental health professionals are standing by to answer all of your questions about PTSD and substance abuse treatment. Find out if the residential mental health treatment center in Atlanta is right for you by calling 833.625.0458 or reaching out through the online form today.
Atlanta Center for Mental Health is a free-standing, non-hospital-setting, residential facility that treats co-occurring mental health disorders along with primary mental health diagnoses. Our goal is to transform your life and put you on the path to wellness and recovery.