Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month is recognized in the United States annually in June. PTSD Awareness Month was created to increase public understanding and knowledge of PTSD’s causes and symptoms alongside advancing the discussion of its available treatments. Everyone can get involved in making a difference in the lives of those who have experienced trauma.
Recent statistics show that more than eight million Americans deal with PTSD. Effective, quality treatment for PTSD is widely available. However, many people do not receive the help they need. Often, this is due to a lack of awareness or understanding about PTSD, its symptoms, and available treatments.
At BoardPrep Recovery Center®, we’re committed to providing treatment for your mental health and substance abuse. We offer a range of treatment options, from TMS therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy. To learn more about the help available to you or a loved one dealing with PTSD, contact us at 866.796.4720 or use our convenient online form today.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is an anxiety disorder that a person may develop following a traumatic event. It is especially prevalent among survivors of abuse and those who have served in active-duty combat. Other events that can trigger PTSD include car accidents, natural disasters, or being the victim of a crime. Common symptoms can include:
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Anger
- Isolation
- Depression
- Flashbacks
- Relational issues
Symptom onset may occur well after a person experiences the initial trauma. PTSD’s common symptoms can serve to isolate people and may take a severe toll on their mental health, resulting in PTSD being identified as a common cause of addiction.
Unfortunately, trauma is an unpredictable condition. Events that cause trauma in one person may not cause trauma in someone else. Therefore, if you suspect you’re developing PTSD, it’s often best to seek treatment as soon as possible.
The Connection Between PTSD and Addiction
PTSD and addiction commonly appear together. Experts estimate that more than 35 percent of males and more than 25 percent of females with PTSD also suffer from alcohol or other substance abuse during their lives. Due to their biological effects, alcohol and other drugs can seem to alleviate PTSD symptoms through self-medication. However, in reality, they instead exacerbate and intensify PTSD’s symptoms. The co-occurrence of PTSD and substance abuse can create a devastating spiral that is hard to overcome alone.
Together, the appearance of these disorders is often a barrier for people seeking treatment due to guilt, societal stigma, or the sensitivity surrounding a traumatic event. Thankfully, quality treatments for PTSD and addiction exist and are available. PTSD Awareness Month is the perfect time to confront PTSD and addiction by sharing or accessing resources that can get you or a loved one on the path to recovery.
Seek Dual Diagnosis Treatment at BoardPrep Recovery Center®
Treating PTSD and addiction generally requires a dual diagnosis treatment program. This treatment option addresses PTSD and addiction simultaneously instead of the traditional method, which prioritizes one disorder’s treatment over the other. With the interplay between these disorders, treating each in isolation leads to higher rates of relapse.
That is why BoardPrep Recovery Center® in Tampa, Florida, offers a dual diagnosis day-night rehab program that prioritizes patient wellbeing. Our programs integrate the therapies, treatment, support, and education necessary for you or a loved one to heal. We provide access to mental health professionals and addiction specialists from day one to support you in achieving sobriety and healing from your trauma.
Contact us online or at 866.796.4720 to learn how a dual diagnosis treatment program for PTSD and addiction could secure the quality of life you deserve.
