PTSD and “Danger Mode”

PTSD develops when the brain essentially gets stuck in “danger mode” following a distressing event. In this mode, the body’s senses are heightened, and one may experience fear or fight or flight. In this state, the body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and norepinephrine, which makes the heart beat faster and make you feel alert.1

This “danger mode,” or fear response, has allowed humans to evolve and survive dangerous situations, but with PTSD, the body stays in this mode even when it doesn’t need to. This leads to distressing PTSD symptoms like anxiety, anger, depression, sleep issues, and more. 

Complex PTSD

Individuals can also develop complex PTSD, which includes the same symptoms of PTSD, but is diagnosed in people who have lived through multiple traumatic experiences. While people with PTSD tend to experience a sense of threat, avoidance, and reliving their trauma, those with complex PTSD experience those symptoms along with a negative sense of self, emotional dysregulation, and relationship problems.2

Due to the distressing PTSD symptoms, some individuals use substances to cope, leading to alcohol or drug substance use disorders.

Common Indications of PTSD

Some common signs of PTSD include:

Common Indications of Substance Addiction

Common signs of substance addiction include:

How and Why Can PTSD Lead to Addiction?

PTSD and substance abuse are linked because people often use substances to cope with PTSD symptoms. Additionally, when someone develops PTSD, that person’s nervous system becomes activated and is in a state of near-constant hypervigilance. This means the body is in a constant state of stress, unable to return to the parasympathetic nervous system, which allows for rest, digestion, and healing. This takes a toll on the mind and body, and some people with PTSD find that substances allow them to feel a sense of relief from the constant stress of their PTSD symptoms.

Unfortunately, PTSD and addiction are a vicious cycle. When alcohol or drugs are used to manage PTSD symptoms, it often only makes issues worse, as substance abuse doesn’t address the root cause of the issue.

Inpatient Treatment

This treatment is an excellent option for people looking for intensive, one-on-one care. With inpatient treatment, individuals stay at a mental health or addiction facility at all times, usually for the duration of a month or longer.

Here, individuals have the chance to work with therapists and other medical professionals to heal their trauma, address addiction, and begin recovery without the triggers and stressors of the outside world. There are treatment centers for PTSD and drug addiction as well as for PTSD and alcohol addiction.

Outpatient Treatment

Like inpatient treatment, individuals can receive one-on-one care with outpatient treatment, but with the benefit of treatment being on the patient’s schedule. This means you attend day programs to address addiction issues or mental health concerns, but you are free to go home in the evening. This is a good option for people who want to continue working, taking classes, and generally continuing their daily lives while also healing.

12-Step Programs

One of the most successful treatment programs for addiction is the 12-step program. This program encourages individuals dealing with addiction to take control of their lives by following a regimented program focused on accountability, faith, and perseverance.4

Support Groups

Sometimes, what a person needs most is to know they’re not alone. When dealing with addiction and PTSD, it’s easy to feel isolated and like no one understands what you’re going through. However, support groups for these PTSD and drug addiction can help you find solidarity with other people who share your struggles. 

Veterans Programs

For veterans experiencing PTSD or addiction, there are specific support groups and programs to offer assistance. Many of these programs are offered across the country, more info can be found via Veterans Affairs.5

Opportunities for Wellness at Genesis Recovery

PTSD and addiction treatment centers can be a good place to start. At Genesis Recovery, you have the opportunity to address substance abuse and PTSD with holistic therapies and interventions. Genesis Recovery offers co-occurring disorder treatment programs that allow for high-quality and integrated care, so both addiction and PTSD are effectively addressed.

Our guarantee of offering ongoing support, well into your recovery, means you are supported every step of the way. Don’t wait to get PTSD and substance abuse treatment. Get help today for PTSD and addiction at Genesis Recovery.

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