Mental illness is a frequent contributor to substance abuse.
Many people who suffer from mental health problems will turn to substance abuse to cope with their symptoms. PTSD and alcohol abuse has become an especially common duo. Lots of individuals who struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder drink alcohol to numb their thoughts and emotions. People who neglect to seek an alcohol detox to stop binge drinking increase their chances of developing health conditions like mental illness, liver disease, or cancer.
What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder, also referred to as PTSD, is a disorder that develops in people who have undergone a shocking, scary, or dangerous experience. Fear is a common response to a traumatic situation. When a person feels as if they’re in danger, their “fight-or-flight” response kicks in, and they may experience intense physical symptoms as a result of this sudden adrenaline rush. These feelings usually dissipate over time, but some people may continue to experience this heightened sense of fear long after the incident. Individuals who fall under this category may have PTSD without realizing it.
Signs that you or someone you know have PTSD include:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Frightening thoughts
- Avoiding places or events that are reminders of the experience
- Being easily startled
- Feeling tense
- Feeling paranoid
- Difficulty sleeping
- Sudden emotional outbursts
The symptoms of PTSD can worsen if the individual doesn’t receive professional treatment. Banyan Treatment Centers offers a mental health diagnosis that can identify any existing mental illnesses or disorders. PTSD and alcohol are never a good mix, and substance abuse is never the answer. Individuals who are diagnosed with PTSD can get help at our center for addiction and mental health treatment in Pompano.
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Connection Between Alcoholism and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD and alcohol abuse are a dangerous duo. It’s not surprising when people who don’t receive PTSD treatment rely on binge drinking in an attempt to self-medicate their mental and physical symptoms. However, alcohol abuse will only worsen the effects of mental illness and cause health problems in the long run.
The effects of alcohol can intensify the symptoms of PTSD. Alcohol impairs a person’s ability to concentrate, remember things correctly, and move. After long bouts of binge drinking, PTSD symptoms like emotional numbness, self-isolation, irritability, depression, and paranoia can worsen. Mixing PTSD with alcohol use disorder can take a toll on a person’s life. Their relationships, jobs, finances, and health can suffer. The best way to avoid the repercussions of untreated addiction is to seek help at our center for drug and alcohol treatment.
If you or a loved one is battling with mental illness or substance abuse, you don’t have to go through it alone. Call us now at 888-280-4763 to learn more about our programs.
