Treating Patients With Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Abuse Simultaneously Can Increase Their Chances for Success
Nearly 42 percent of addicts also have post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the two are normally not treated at the same time, there is mounting evidence that suggest better results if done this way. An article in the Internal Medicine News talks about the benefits and barriers of a collaborative effort to deal with both issues.
When it comes to treatment there are barriers for both substance abuse and PTSD. Professionals on one side often refuse to treat alcoholics until their PTSD is in check. Professionals dealing with PTSD in almost half of veterans and a third of citizens are reluctant to treat the disorder without a handle on their substance abuse problems.
Research has shown that overcoming that hump and treating the two simultaneously has results. Undermining goals for dealing with substance abuse has often been regarded as opening Pandora’s Box. But the demons are already there for many of the patients dealing with both of these issues. To take control over the PTSD could hinder the substance abuse and kicking their habits can make them more responsive to PTSD treatment.
Integrating treatments is extremely beneficial based on many documented studies. There are enhanced outcomes of symptoms in post therapeutic scenarios. Many of the patients seen in the clinic of Dr. Kathleen T. Brady had numerous disorders that could benefit from one unique treatment plan.
Another psychiatrist found that by focusing on practical treatment for a reduction in anxiety, incorporating recovery thinking and managing relationships, patients were able to respond more quickly and easily.
It was quite obvious in many of the case studies that a collaborative effort to treat both PTSD and substance abuse improved the patient’s quality of life. Overall, there was a vast improvement in problem solving skills and a reduction in suicidal thoughts.
