PTSD Treatment in Los Angeles
PTSD
PTSD and Substance Abuse Treatment
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These events might include combat, sexual or physical assault, accidents, natural disasters, or the sudden loss of a loved one. For many, the memories and emotional responses to these events can be overwhelming, leading to a wide range of symptoms that interfere with daily life.
At Veritas Detox, a leading residential drug rehab and detox facility, we understand the intricate connection between PTSD and substance abuse. Individuals often turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with the intense feelings associated with PTSD. However, substance abuse can exacerbate the symptoms of PTSD, creating a destructive cycle. At Veritas Detox, we address both the underlying trauma and the addiction, helping our clients achieve long-term recovery.
How PTSD Can Lead to Substance Abuse
The link between PTSD and substance abuse is well-documented. According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 50% of individuals who suffer from PTSD also struggle with substance abuse. There are several reasons for this strong connection:
Self-Medication
For many individuals with PTSD, the emotional pain can feel unbearable. Nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, and depression are all common symptoms, and these can be so intense that individuals may turn to substances in an attempt to numb their feelings. This phenomenon is known as “self-medication.” Alcohol and drugs can temporarily mask the pain, offering short-term relief. However, this relief is fleeting, and the use of substances can quickly spiral into dependence and addiction.
Disruption of the Brain's Reward System
PTSD affects the brain’s reward system, making it harder for individuals to feel pleasure and happiness. Drugs and alcohol artificially stimulate this reward system, providing a temporary feeling of euphoria. Over time, the brain becomes reliant on these substances to feel any sense of well-being, further deepening the cycle of addiction.
Hyperarousal and Substance Abuse
One of the hallmark symptoms of PTSD is hyperarousal, where the body remains in a state of heightened alertness, even in the absence of danger. This constant state of anxiety and stress can be exhausting, and individuals may turn to substances to calm themselves down or sleep. Unfortunately, reliance on substances for relief from hyperarousal often leads to addiction.
Avoidance Behaviors
Individuals with PTSD often engage in avoidance behaviors to steer clear of reminders of their trauma. This could mean avoiding certain places, people, or activities that trigger memories of the event. For some, drugs or alcohol become a method of avoidance, helping them to escape from the distressing emotions associated with their trauma. Unfortunately, this avoidance only delays healing and deepens dependence on substances.
Signs of PTSD
Understanding the signs of PTSD is essential for recognizing when professional treatment is needed. Symptoms of PTSD can be grouped into four main categories:
Intrusive Thoughts
One of the most distressing symptoms of PTSD is the presence of intrusive thoughts, which can take the form of flashbacks, nightmares, or unwelcome memories of the traumatic event. These intrusive thoughts can feel very real and overwhelming, causing the individual to relive the trauma over and over again. They can lead to intense emotional and physical reactions, such as panic attacks, heart palpitations, and sweating.
Avoidance
As mentioned earlier, individuals with PTSD may go to great lengths to avoid anything that reminds them of the trauma. This can include avoiding certain locations, activities, or even discussing the event. Avoidance behaviors can be particularly isolating, leading to a withdrawal from loved ones and a refusal to seek help.
Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition
PTSD can have a profound impact on a person’s mood and thought patterns. Those suffering from PTSD may experience persistent negative emotions such as fear, guilt, or shame. They may also have distorted beliefs about themselves or the world, such as believing that they are to blame for what happened, or that the world is inherently dangerous. These negative changes can lead to a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, as well as a sense of detachment from others.
Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms
Individuals with PTSD often feel like they are constantly on edge or in danger, even when there is no immediate threat. This hyperarousal can manifest as being easily startled, having difficulty sleeping, irritability, or outbursts of anger. The nervous system remains in a state of heightened alertness, which can be both mentally and physically exhausting.
The Need for Treatment: Why Veritas Detox Is Essential
For individuals suffering from both PTSD and substance abuse, professional treatment is essential. At Veritas Detox, we recognize the unique challenges that come with treating these co-occurring disorders, and we are committed to providing holistic, evidence-based care that addresses both the trauma and the addiction. Here’s how we do it:
Integrated Treatment Approach
One of the most important aspects of treating co-occurring PTSD and substance abuse is ensuring that both conditions are addressed simultaneously. If the underlying trauma is not treated, the individual is likely to relapse into substance abuse as a way to cope with their unresolved emotional pain. Conversely, if the addiction is not addressed, the symptoms of PTSD can become even more unmanageable. At Veritas Detox, our integrated treatment approach focuses on healing the whole person, addressing both the trauma and the addiction through individualized treatment plans.
Trauma-Informed Care
At Veritas Detox, we provide trauma-informed care, which means that we recognize and respond to the signs of trauma in our clients. Our team of experienced therapists and counselors are trained to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to process their trauma. By acknowledging the impact of trauma on an individual’s mental and physical health, we can offer compassionate care that promotes healing.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are two of the most effective therapeutic modalities for treating PTSD. CBT helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms, while EMDR helps individuals process traumatic memories in a way that reduces their emotional charge. At Veritas Detox, we offer both CBT and EMDR as part of our treatment program, giving our clients the tools they need to heal from their trauma.
Holistic Therapies
In addition to traditional talk therapies, Veritas Detox offers a range of holistic therapies that promote healing on a physical, mental, and emotional level. These may include yoga, meditation, art therapy, and mindfulness practices. Holistic therapies are particularly beneficial for individuals with PTSD, as they help to calm the nervous system, promote relaxation, and build resilience against future stressors.
Supportive Aftercare
Recovery from PTSD and substance abuse does not end when a person leaves our facility. At Veritas Detox, we offer comprehensive aftercare programs that provide ongoing support to our clients as they transition back into their daily lives. This may include continued therapy, group support, and relapse prevention strategies. We are committed to helping our clients build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
Safe and Supportive Environment
The healing process requires a safe and supportive environment, which is why Veritas Detox offers a serene and comfortable setting where individuals can focus on their recovery. Our residential program allows clients to step away from the stresses of daily life and immerse themselves in their treatment. With round-the-clock care from our dedicated staff, clients can feel secure in their journey towards healing.
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Treatment Options
We offer the full spectrum of drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Our treatment includes detox, inpatient care, and aftercare planning on an individualized level. We’re excited to help you break free from addiction.
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Veritas Detox Can Help With Addiction and PTSD Treatment
PTSD and substance abuse are deeply intertwined, and without proper treatment, they can lead to a cycle of self-destructive behaviors. At Veritas Detox, we are dedicated to breaking this cycle by offering comprehensive, trauma-informed care that addresses both the underlying trauma and the addiction. By providing an integrated treatment approach, evidence-based therapies, and holistic healing practices, we help our clients find freedom from the grips of PTSD and substance abuse. Our goal is to empower individuals to reclaim their lives, find peace, and achieve lasting recovery.
We Accept Most Insurance Providers
Veritas Detox works with most insurance providers. Our admissions team works around-the-clock to ensure that those that need help have the access to get it. Verify your benefits and one of our treatment consultants will get back to you with more information on how you can get started.
