Know the Warning Signs of PTSD and Addiction

Mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and addiction are common in individuals. But what exactly are the warning signs of PTSD and addiction that you need to look for? And how can you help them through this challenging transition?

Below, we answer your questions and break down the common symptoms that many individuals face when dealing with PTSD and addiction so that you can learn what to watch for and how to get them treatment today.

Why Are PTSD and Addiction Common?

First and foremost, it’s important to recognize that PTSD and addiction are both common issues for individuals, especially when they first return home from service.

Additionally, certain factors like a family history of mental illness, past traumatic experiences, and co-occurring mental disorders can all increase a individual’s odds of experiencing PTSD and addiction. If you know that there are additional risk factors for your loved one, knowing the warning signs becomes even more important so that you can detect problems early.

Typically, individuals develop PTSD after going through a traumatic experience, which can include witnessing injury or death, getting in an accident, etc. They might then turn to drugs or alcohol to mask their emotional, mental, and physical pain.

You might wonder why your loved one doesn’t just seek treatment once they notice a problem. In reality, many individuals struggle to talk about all that they’ve experienced while serving. Your loved one might not talk about any of these experiences—possibly because they do not want to worry you, because the memories are simply too painful to relive, or because they don’t think that anybody else will understand.

Know that this is often not a true reflection on their relationship with you. Even in the most trusting and supportive relationships, talking about mental health struggles has become taboo for individuals. They believe they are supposed to “be tough.” This is one of the reasons why individuals don’t end up getting treatment until their PTSD and substance use disorder already have control over their lives.

However, with your support and careful eye, you might be able to catch the warning signs of PTSD and addiction and lead your loved one toward a path of healing.

What Are the Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

PTSD is a personal, complex struggle in individuals and the symptoms of this disorder can be difficult to detect. Here are some common red flags to look out for:

• Drastic changes in mood, behavior, or personality upon returning home: These shifts in behavior can present themselves in many different ways, such as your loved one becoming isolated and quieter than usual or even the opposite by engaging in reckless behaviors (unprotected sex, drinking and driving, spending excessive amounts of money, etc.).
• Nightmares and flashbacks: One of the most challenging symptoms of PTSD is coping with the memories of the traumatic event. Individuals often have vivid nightmares when asleep and flashbacks when awake that bring them right back to the traumatic event, even though they are not truly there. If you notice your loved one waking suddenly, avoiding sleep, or freezing in public places, for example, they might be having a flashback from PTSD.
• Avoidance of places and situations: Has your loved one been reluctant to go into crowded spaces? Maybe they avoid environments with loud noises or no clear exits, even though this didn’t bother them before their service. Most likely, they are avoiding places and situations that might trigger flashbacks. In the moment of a flashback, they feel that they are in danger and automatically switch to survival mode. You might notice that they “zone out,” freeze, or suddenly get the urge to bolt out of the room. These are all symptoms of PTSD.

In some cases, your loved one might show other physical signs of PTSD as well. Stomachaches, sweating, shaking, loss of appetite, sleeplessness (or sleeping too much), and decreased concentration are also all signs that indicate PTSD.

How Do I Know if My Loved One Struggles with Addiction?

Unfortunately, addiction goes together with PTSD and other mental health conditions for individuals. Once again, addiction can be hard to spot in your loved one. A common symptom is actually secrecy. Hiding these unhealthy habits makes it challenging to know if your loved one has an issue with substance abuse. However, you can keep an eye out for the following warning signs of addiction:

• Drinking, using drugs, and “partying” more than usual
• Taking prescription drugs outside of the intended use
• Needing to consume more alcohol or drugs to feel the effects
• Stealing, lying, and engaging in any behaviors necessary to get access to drugs or alcohol
• Expressions that they need the substance to “feel okay”
• Appearing drunk or high frequently
• Losing friends, jobs, and financial resources.

 

Video

Trauma on the Brain: The Neurobiological Effects of PTSD, Daisy Payton – PTSD

The neurobiological effects of PTSD can vary based on personal touch. PTSD is caused by extreme trauma and is seen most in women. Research shows that long term experience of traumatic stress has drastic impacts on specific structures of the brain, like the prefrontal cortex. These disruptions can affect the ability to regulate emotion, learn, and form new memories.

 

Podcast

The Many Forms, Faces And Causes Of PTSD – NPR

NPR’s Weekend Edition wanted to hear from those people who have struggled with PTSD, but not because of the reasons we often hear about. Michael Coleman says he faced stress on a daily basis as a social worker in North Carolina. He worked for the government investigating foster care in the state for 13 years.

 

FAQ

1. What are the common signs of PTSD and addiction?
   Common signs include anxiety, flashbacks, insomnia, social withdrawal, and increased reliance on drugs or alcohol to cope with emotional pain.
2. How does PTSD contribute to substance abuse?
   People with PTSD may use substances like alcohol or drugs to self-medicate and numb emotional distress, which can lead to addiction over time.
3. Can PTSD and addiction be treated together?
   Yes, many treatment programs offer dual diagnosis treatment that addresses both PTSD and addiction simultaneously through therapy and medication.
4. What types of therapy are effective for PTSD and addiction?
   Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and group therapy are common treatments for both conditions.
5. How can I support a loved one with PTSD and addiction?
   Offer emotional support, encourage professional treatment, and help them find local resources or support groups for recovery.