About PTSD Treatment and Drug Addiction Counseling
Post-traumatic stress disorder, more often referred to as PTSD, is a commonly diagnosed anxiety disorder characterized by a specific group of symptoms that result from one or several significant traumatic events. PTSD affects up to 8 of every 100 American citizens, according to the National Center of PTSD, and rates of PTSD are significantly higher among certain demographics – including women and military veterans. The majority of men and women who suffer from PTSD fail to seek the professional help they need, either because they are afraid of being judged by their peers or family members or because they simply do not know where to look.
When it comes to mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, there are still many stigmas in circulation that prevent people from receiving the help they so desperately need. At Agape Treatment Center, we work closely with men and women of all ages and demographics who have been suffering from PTSD and who are simultaneously suffering at the hands of a substance abuse disorder.
The Frequency of PTSD and Substance Abuse
PTSD and substance abuse are two common co-occurring disorders. Men and women who suffer from unresolved trauma often turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to self-medicate, and self-medication often leads to addiction. According to an article published by the US National Library of Medicine, for treatment for either PTSD or addiction to be effective long-term, both conditions must be addressed in the same treatment center. Substance abuse is characterized by maladaptive patterns of behavior that involve a chemical substance and lead to related consequences.
Some of the more common symptoms of substance abuse include developing a physical tolerance, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when use is suddenly stopped, trying to cut back or quit but being unable to do so, spending a great deal of time obtaining and using the drug, and continuing to use the drug despite professional advice to do the contrary. The same article that was mentioned earlier suggests that out of the individuals who meet the criteria for PTSD, nearly half also meet the criteria for a diagnosable substance use disorder. If you or someone close to you has been struggling with a co-occurring disorder of any type or severity, Agape Treatment Center is available to help.
Searching for PTSD Therapy and Drug Counseling
How can PTSD and drug addiction be simultaneously treated? First, the person who is experiencing symptoms of both conditions must find a treatment center that specializes in dual diagnosis disorders. At Agape Treatment Center we specialize in co-occurring disorders like PTSD and substance abuse. Next, it is important to establish that the dual diagnosis treatment center offers trauma-informed care and drug counseling. What is drug counseling? Drug counseling is a crucial component of every effective recovery program – one that revolves around one-on-one and group psychotherapy.
Drug counseling covers a wide range of pertinent, recovery-related topics, from the negative consequences associated with drug abuse and addiction to the importance of relapse prevention and 12 step meeting involvement. Reputable drug treatment centers will integrate PTSD treatment with effective drug counseling services, offering a program that can easily be tailored to the unique needs of each client.
We Offer Comprehensive Dual Diagnosis Treatment
At Agape Treatment Center, our experienced team of licensed therapists (all with extensive backgrounds in trauma-informed care), addiction specialists, and drug counselors work together to provide the most comprehensive clinical care available. If you or someone close to you has been struggling with unresolved trauma and drug abuse, we are available to help. Simply give us a call and our treatment advisors will answer any questions you might have and get you started on your journey of post-traumatic stress disorder and drug abuse or addiction recovery.
