PTSD and Substance Abuse
Many people with a substance use disorder also have PTSD or symptoms of PTSD. Studies estimate that about 25% of men and women who seek rehab for drug and alcohol use have PTSD symptoms.
Other studies have found individuals with PTSD are between two and four times more likely than those without PTSD to have a substance use disorder.
The link between PTSD and substance use disorders in women is especially strong. Studies estimate the rates of PTSD in women who seek substance abuse treatment are as high as 60%.
People who have PTSD experience numerous mental and physical health problems. PTSD symptoms may drive individuals to use drugs and alcohol in an attempt to relax and distract themselves from disturbing thoughts, to forget painful memories of the event or numb distressing feelings, such as guilt, shame, anger or fear associated with the trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder is what’s known as a co-occurring disorder, because it often occurs in individuals who are struggling with alcohol and drug use.