Complex Trauma and Alcohol Use Disorder: What’s the Connection?

Recognizing the patterns of who completes treatment and why they succeed (or do not) is vital for crafting targeted interventions that meet the needs of different populations. Looking ahead, the evolving landscape of telehealth, increased focus on wraparound services, and emerging treatments for stimulant use disorders could further improve long-term recovery rates. If you or a loved one is seeking help, explore the resources available through NVHS, including information on substance use disorders, housing, mental health support, and peer mentoring. In the paper by Emerson and colleagues (2017), the authors examined the association between AUD and PTSD in American Indians/Alaskan Natives (AIAN) as compared to non- Hispanic Whites (NHW). In a large sample of over 19,000 participants, prevalence rates of AUD, PTSD, as well as comorbid AUD/PTSD were found to be significantly higher in AIAN participants as compared to NHW participants.

Common Co-Occurring Disorders with SUDs

Heart disease and PTSD—As a group, Veterans are at especially high risk for developing heart disease. According to the article, there is strong evidence that patients with PTSD have a greater burden of fatty deposits in their arteries and reduced blood flow to the heart that can lead Sober living house to CVD events. In conclusion, while the path to recovery from co-occurring PTSD and alcohol use disorder may be challenging, it is a journey worth undertaking.

Completion rates are an important metric because they correlate strongly with better long-term sobriety. Insurance coverage profoundly influences whether individuals can afford or even seek out treatment. The financial toll of addiction is massive, driving healthcare expenditures, productivity losses, and criminal justice costs.

Concurrent treatment of PTSD and substance use disorders using prolonged exposure (COPE)

It is possible for PTSD to be successfully treated many years after the traumatic event occurred, which means it is never too late to seek help. Understanding that problematic drinking exists along a broad spectrum can empower people to seek help proactively. Positive change comes in various forms, from seeking therapy to explore healthier coping mechanisms to finding support within peer networks and educational resources. The Butler Center for Research recently concluded a two-year study of patient outcomes at Hazelden Betty Ford. Aversion therapy is not typically recommended as a standalone treatment due to its limited effectiveness and potential risks.

The Connection Between PTSD and Substance Abuse

Less than 20% of respondents who experienced AUD in their lifetime ever sought treatment for the condition. Kirsty Mulcahy is a compassionate transformational life coach with a special focus on helping individuals embrace the beauty of an alcohol-free existence. Kirsty is not just a coach; she’s the visionary founder and dedicated Managing Director of SoberBuzz Scotland CIC. One of the most crucial aspects of this journey is to eliminate any sense of shame. We know that this can be difficult, especially if you have thought negatively about your drinking for a long time, but it is an important step.

Geographic Distribution of Relapse Rates

• Whether seeking care through the VA system or private treatment facilities, veterans have access to numerous high-quality programs designed specifically for their unique needs.
• Hoge, C. W., Castro, C. A., Messer, S. C., McGurk, D., Cotting, D. I., & Koffman, R. L.
• Residential treatment ranges from days, with some specialized programs extending to 6-12 months.
• Even considering the upfront costs of residential care or medication-assisted treatment, the long-term savings are substantial, both economically and in quality of life.
• People undergoing CPT therapy are helped to understand and change how they think about their trauma and its aftermath.

Supermarkets offer a variety of choices, and platforms like The Wise Bartender provide a wide selection. Even many bars now offer more than traditional non-alcoholic beverages like Becks Blue. SoberBuzz founder, Kirsty, has been journaling her gratitude every day since she stopped drinking, ptsd and alcohol abuse and she attests that it’s the most powerful tool for self-care and self-compassion.

By removing traditional stereotypes, we can encourage people to recognise that their relationship with alcohol deserves attention and care. Collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and policymakers is crucial in developing comprehensive strategies that address the multifaceted nature of PTSD and SUDs. By working together, we can create a brighter future for those affected by these challenging conditions. Recovery capital is a construct that captures internal (e.g., sense of purpose) and external (e.g., social support) assets that can help to initiate and sustain recovery. These measures will be assessed across all patients https://emmanssolution.com/recovery-gift-guide-sober-gift-guide/ and all levels of care at Hazelden Betty Ford. The lack of standardized protocols further complicates the ethical practice of aversion therapy.

• Over the past few decades, important advances have been made in behavioral treatments for comorbid AUD and PTSD.
• Clinicians must weigh its benefits against ethical and practical concerns, ensuring that any treatment plan is both safe and sustainable.
• In one study, Vietnam veterans with PTSD were shown a videotape of combat and asked to rate the pain intensity of a hot stimulus.

SKA2 gene may predict risk—Biomarkers are measurable indicators of health and disease. A study  by researchers at VA’s National Center for PTSD, and other institutions identified a gene, SKA2, that could potentially be used as a biomarker to help predict risk in service members for developing PTSD, prior to deployment. Certain service members may be at greater risk for developing severe PTSD as the result of a high lifetime burden of stress and combat exposures. Genetic risk factors for PTSD—A large international  study  involving several VA researchers that examined genetic risk factors for PTSD was completed in 2017. The study included some 200 billion pieces of genetic information from more than 20,000 adults throughout the world.

Alcohol has a significant impact on the brain and body, particularly for those living with PTSD. Both PTSD and alcohol affect similar areas of the brain, including the amygdala (which processes fear and emotion), the hippocampus (responsible for memory), and the prefrontal cortex (which manages decision-making and impulse control). Beyond formal rehab, ongoing support services are critical for sustained recovery. Expanding telehealth and mobile treatment units are strategies being deployed to close these gaps.

• At Agape Treatment, we understand the complex relationship between PTSD and alcohol use.
• Instead of addressing trauma through therapy, mindfulness, or support, individuals may rely on alcohol to dull their emotions.
• Rats will typically increase their alcohol consumption after several days of 1-hour sessions of brief electric footshocks.
• Studies of COPE with Veterans and civilians have shown this integrated treatment improves PTSD symptoms.

In addition to psychotherapy, holistic approaches such as mindfulness, acupuncture, and yoga have been shown to reduce alcohol use and PTSD symptoms. Support from family, friends, and loved ones is also crucial for effective treatment. SAMHSA’s National Helpline offers a free, confidential referral service for individuals and families facing mental health and substance use disorders, providing information and referrals to local treatment facilities and support groups. Treating comorbid PTSD and AUD requires an integrated approach that simultaneously addresses both conditions with targeted therapies.