Many Veterans returning home experience severe trauma from their time serving. About twenty percent have recuring symptoms of PTSD. And once service members are discharged their healthcare to Changed to VA programs which do not offer the same quality treatment that they got as active service members. The VA programs usually have long wait times and require Veterans to take the time to set up with new doctors. So often the symptoms associated with PTSD can go undiagnosed. Without treatment in the form of either cognitive behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Cognitive processing Therapy (CPT), the symptoms can be recurring and effect the quality of life.
Symptoms associate with PTSD in Veterans:
- Flashbacks
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Aggression
- Self-Harm
- Trouble focusing
PTSD symptoms come and go, they are not constant. When individuals are exposed to stimulus that reminds them of their trauma it can trigger symptoms. Episodes can cause flashbacks that make them relive the trauma, even years after they can still feel as if they never left it behind. For Veterans, these triggers can include fireworks, gunshots, or other loud noises. Some choose to avoid these triggers all together, which can interfere with a normal life. While others are susceptible to use substances to dull their senses to decrease the chances of experiencing symptoms or to repress their memories. This can lead to a substance addiction and dependent behavior.
Addiction Among Veterans
Addiction is a disorder that changes the brain just like PTSD. Already having one psychological disorder increases the chances that an individual suffers from another. And those with PTSD have a greatly increased chance of turning to substances than the regular population. In addition, many veterans come home with injuries that require pain medication or require anxiety medication, which can also increase the risk that they develop substance abuse issues. There is also another danger that returning veterans face when returning home. Veterans are about five times more likely to commit suicide than non-veterans within the same age group. Veterans that have left the service four or less years ago, are at even greater risk than those that have been retired for longer.
Addiction and PTSD are serious conditions that effects many people, and it can have a devastating impact on the individuals suffering and their family and friends. However, not all addiction treatment is the same and not all clinics are the same. This is where StepHouse recovery comes in, we offer inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment and monitored hospitalization. Overall, we have five different levels of treatment designed to provide the exact level of care for each case. We also provide an inhouse detox program and dual diagnosis therapy.
Call StepHouse Recovery or Contact Us today and one of our caring representatives will hear you out and point you in the right direction.
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