The topic of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is complex and brimming with nuance. One cannot comprehend this understated issue without viewing it through a variety of lenses. For example, how is C-PTSD associated with substance abuse, and is there possibly a cause-and-effect relationship?
We need more research but the studies we have show, for example, high numbers of people who have endured complex trauma leaning on alcohol as a method of self-medication. As many as three-quarters of those who experienced ongoing abuse may consume alcohol at a problematic rate. How then can we better understand trends like this and take steps to address them?
How C-PTSD Can Lead to Substance Abuse
For the record, not all survivors of complex trauma will develop substance use disorder. However, existing data points toward increased risk for this population. Here are a couple of factors to consider:
Self-Medication
As touched on above, the harsh symptoms of C-PTSD provoke individuals to seek unconventional ways to regulate their pain, intrusive thoughts, and mood swings. Substance use is a very temporary way to find relief but, of course, this approach will only serve to increase distress over time. In fact, the co-morbidity of C-PTSD and substance abuse is known to intensify symptoms and lengthen the duration of treatment plans.
Unresolved Trauma
Remember, complex trauma is repetitive and often leaves victims feeling as if escape is impossible. This combination of factors distorts your brain’s reward system — leaving you more vulnerable to counterproductive coping choices.
A Tendency Toward Dissociation
Complex trauma, especially during childhood, can be a catalyst for dissociation. If you cannot avoid or escape the suffering, you may find internal methods of self-protection. Dissociation allows a victim to avoid encountering nightmares and flashbacks. In addition, it causes lapses in one’s memory that can reduce the likelihood of being triggered. This ties back in with self-medication. Drugs and alcohol can feel like the shortest path when seeking to numb your physical pain and emotional distress.
Re-Enacting Trauma
Left unaddressed, C-PTSD may cause feelings of low self-worth, guilt, shame, and self-blame. Such a state is conducive to self-destructive behavior — often in the form of trauma re-enactment. Substance abuse serves these dysfunctional purposes well.
Each Person and Case Is Unique
The likelihood of a complex trauma victim engaging in substance abuse can depend on some very particular factors, e.g. personality traits, and access to treatment and support. Even so, regardless of such specifics, the sooner a specialist has been consulted, the less likely it is that drugs or alcohol can become an embedded co-morbidity.
What You Can Do About C-PTSD and Substance Abuse
Substance abuse co-existing with another mental health disorder is not unusual. As many as 60 percent of alcohol and drug users have other diagnoses. The silver lining here lies in how common this scenario is. As a result, many effective protocols are available for someone with both C-PTSD and substance abuse.
What Someone with C-PTSD and Substance Abuse Typically Needs
- A customized, holistic approach that aims to heal the whole person and all associated disorders.
- Since the patient’s needs will inevitably evolve, this treatment plan must include adjustments at regular intervals.
- Whatever approach is chosen will take place via inpatient or outpatient options over a sufficient amount to increase the probability of long-term success.
- Diligent follow-up care.
- Building a support system of trusted friends and family members.
The blend of C-PTSD and substance abuse should not be given a hard deadline when it comes to recovery. A skilled trauma therapist will be there every step of the way with guidance and knowledge. It all begins when we connect and talk.