Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that often develops after experiencing a major traumatic event. The condition is characterized by intrusive memories, flashbacks, and a persistent sense of fear or danger associated with the traumatic event. PTSD can significantly impact an individual’s daily life, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and irritability. It can also result in the onset of a substance use disorder (SUD), as individuals may turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate and numb their symptoms.
Substance abuse can provide temporary relief from the intense emotions and memories associated with PTSD. However, it ultimately leads to further complications and a vicious cycle of substance use and trauma. Substance abuse can also trigger a traumatic event, leading to a worsening of PTSD symptoms.
Recovery from PTSD and SUD requires a holistic approach that includes both mental and physical health treatment. While the journey to recovery may be difficult, there are several steps individuals can take to manage PTSD during their sober living journey and set themselves up for success moving forward.
Understanding PTSD and SUD
The first step in managing PTSD during recovery is understanding the disorder and how it may have played a role in the onset of SUD. PTSD can develop after experiencing a traumatic event such as military combat, sexual or physical assault, a car accident, or a natural disaster.
Individuals with PTSD may experience intrusive memories, nightmares, and flashbacks that cause them to relive the traumatic event. When these events are relived, the mind lacks the ability to differentiate the memory from its current reality. A person may also experience feelings of guilt, shame, or anger and may have difficulty trusting others.
SUD, on the other hand, is a disorder characterized by the repeated use of drugs or alcohol despite its negative consequences. Individuals with SUD may have difficulty controlling their drug or alcohol use and may experience withdrawal symptoms if they try to stop. SUD can also have a negative impact on an individual’s mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
For individuals with both PTSD and SUD, it is important to understand how the two disorders interact and how substance abuse may have been used as a coping mechanism for PTSD symptoms. Understanding the underlying causes of both disorders can help individuals develop more effective coping strategies and reduce the likelihood of relapse.
Seek Professional Help for PTSD and SUD
The next step in managing PTSD during recovery is to seek professional help. Individuals with PTSD and SUD may benefit from a range of treatments, including therapy, medication, and support groups.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commonly used treatment for PTSD and can help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to their symptoms. Exposure therapy, in which individuals are gradually exposed to memories of the traumatic event in a controlled setting, can also be effective in treating PTSD.
Support groups can also be a valuable resource for individuals with PTSD and SUD. Connecting with others who have experienced similar traumatic events can help individuals feel less isolated and can provide a supportive environment in which they can share their experiences and emotions. Engagement through the groups within our sober living facility can provide our residents with the resources, professional assistance, and peer support needed to move forward.
Learn How to Cope With PTSD and SUD
In addition to seeking professional help, individuals with PTSD and SUD can develop coping strategies to manage their symptoms. Coping strategies may include mindfulness and relaxation techniques, exercise, and engaging in hobbies or interests.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help individuals manage feelings of anxiety and stress associated with PTSD. Exercise can also help reduce stress and improve mood. Engaging in hobbies or interests can provide a healthy distraction from traumatic memories and help individuals feel more fulfilled and satisfied with their lives.
It is also important for individuals with PTSD and SUD to learn healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with traumatic memories and triggers. This may involve learning to manage negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may arise in response to reminders of the traumatic event.
An individual may wish to implement grounding techniques, which involve focusing on the present moment and the physical sensations in the body. They may also utilize distraction techniques, which involve redirecting focus to a positive or calming activity.
As the other residents within our facility likely have similar stressors, you can utilize their knowledge and find sober activities to engage in together to cope with stress and find a sense of enjoyment. It is surprising how many options of coping mechanisms there are out there. You just have to experiment and find the ones that work best for you.
Build a Support System
Building a strong support system is also crucial for managing PTSD during recovery. Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals can help provide a sense of security and stability. This can also help individuals to feel less isolated. A support system can include family members, friends, other residents, or members of support groups. Building a strong support network can help to achieve long-term recovery.
It is also important for individuals with PTSD and SUD to have a support system in place during times of stress or trigger events. We encourage having a designated person to call when feeling overwhelmed or having a plan in place for how to handle a triggering situation. While in sober living, you can ensure you stay on track with your success and sobriety maintenance while developing your independence.
Take Care of Physical Health
Taking care of your physical health is also an important part of managing PTSD during recovery. This may involve getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. Taking care of physical health can help improve overall well-being and reduce the symptoms involved with your PTSD. Maintaining physical health is also a great way to alleviate the effects of SUD and potential cravings that may occur.
By adopting healthy habits and seeking medical care when necessary, individuals with PTSD can improve their overall health and well-being. It’s important to remember that recovery is a journey, and taking care of physical health is a critical part of the process. Utilize the resources available to you at our sober living facility by going to the gym, playing volleyball, and engaging in active group activities.
Engaging in healthy activities can provide individuals in recovery with a sense of purpose and satisfaction. This can include exercise, volunteering, or pursuing hobbies and interests. Finding meaningful activities can help to maintain a sense of fulfillment and reduce the urge to use substances. Not all of these activities need to relate to physical exertion, but they can help make your mind and body feel good while engaging.
Avoid PTSD and SUD Cravings and Triggers
It is also important for individuals with PTSD and SUD to avoid substances that may trigger symptoms or increase cravings. This may include avoiding caffeine, nicotine, or other drugs that can increase anxiety or affect sleep. If you find that any of these practices or similar interactions spike your symptoms of PTSD, ensure to be aware of that. Being aware of the effects your symptoms have is a great way to help avoid falling into substance use as a continued form of coping.
Identify triggers that can lead to flashbacks or other PTSD symptoms and avoid them when possible. This may include certain people, places, or situations. If avoidance is not possible, develop coping strategies to manage the triggers. You may not initially recognize the onset of these triggers, expressing the importance of keeping track of when your PTSD or SUD spikes. By identifying triggers, you can work on desensitizing them in a monitored therapeutic setting.
Practice Self-Care
Self-care is essential for managing PTSD. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in physical activity. Additionally, relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga, can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Managing PTSD during recovery is a multi-faceted process. To overcome this form of a co-occurring disorder, a holistic approach is often recommended. This includes seeking professional help, developing coping strategies, building a strong support system, and taking care of physical health. By taking these steps, individuals with PTSD and SUD can learn to manage their symptoms and obtain a fulfilling and successful life in sobriety.
Stay Committed to Sobriety
Staying committed to sobriety is crucial for individuals recovering from PTSD and SUD. Maintaining sobriety can be challenging, but it is essential for long-term recovery and improved overall well-being. Substance use can worsen PTSD symptoms and make recovery more difficult. However, staying committed to your sobriety and engaging in activities that promote a healthy lifestyle can help keep you on the right track.
Setting realistic goals can help individuals in recovery stay focused and motivated. Break larger goals into smaller, achievable steps, and celebrate each milestone along the way. This can provide a sense of accomplishment and reinforce the commitment to sobriety.
Be Patient
Lastly, patience is key. Recovery from PTSD and SUD is a process that requires time and effort. It is important to recognize that healing occurs gradually and that progress can take time. By being patient, individuals in recovery can focus on making incremental improvements and celebrate small successes along the way.
It is important to recognize that setbacks are a natural part of the recovery process. Individuals in recovery may experience challenges, such as cravings, triggers, or setbacks, and setbacks do not indicate failure. By being patient and understanding, individuals in recovery can focus on learning from setbacks and continuing to work towards their goals. Don’t allow these small disruptions to stray you away from your long-term success.
It is important to remember that recovery is a journey, and there may be setbacks along the way. However, with the right tools and support, individuals with PTSD and SUD can overcome their challenges and find peace and healing. It is important to never give up on yourself and to always seek help when needed. With time, patience, and dedication, managing PTSD during recovery is possible and can lead to a brighter and more fulfilling future.
If you or someone you love is struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD), it’s time to take action. Don’t let these disorders control your life. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can learn to manage your symptoms and lead a fulfilling and successful life in sobriety. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional for support. Remember, healing and recovery are possible and within reach. Allow us to help you take the first step today and start your journey toward a brighter future. To learn more about managing PTSD and SUD simultaneously, reach out to Real Recovery Sober Living today at (727) 290-9156.
