Trauma is the emotional reaction to a distressing event. It interferes with the normal coping ability of a person. Most people avoid seeking professional help after experiencing a traumatic event. This is because of the stigma that they get from other people. They end up turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as drugs and alcohol to help them forget about the incidences. A
dual diagnosis treatment program helps the clients deal with the effects of trauma and alcohol abuse on men. It also provides treatment for co-occurring disorders by considering their risk factors.
Effects of Trauma and Alcohol Abuse on Men
Exposure to traumatic events has a close connection with substance abuse problems. Most people who have a history of child abuse, war, criminal attacks, or other traumatic events, often turn to drugs. They presume that alcohol and drugs will help them deal with anxiety, emotional pain, and poor sleep. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often occurs among those with substance abuse disorders. These co-occurring disorders cause problems among the users and their families and friends.
Individuals struggling to cope with the consequences of past or recent traumatic events are at risk of drug and alcohol abuse. Effects of trauma and alcohol abuse on men could be more prevalent if the man had a habit of drinking before the traumatic event occurred.
Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse
Some of the signs of trauma-related substance abuse include:
- Drinking alone to avoid unpleasant and negative thoughts
- Severe mood swings while taking drugs
- A constant desire to take one’s life or escape from reality
- Increased tolerance after struggling with trauma
- Social withdrawal and depression
Using alcohol and drugs may sometimes reduce the symptoms of PTSD. However, it eventually worsens the condition. People struggling with trauma and addiction find it hard to recover. With time, the effects cause emotional and physical damage.
Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders
Substance abuse and trauma are co-occurring disorders. It is essential to treat them together to enhance the possibility of full recovery. Treatment services for traumatic disorders involve diagnosing the individual as a whole. Professionals assist affected persons to learn healthy coping mechanisms. Some of these mechanisms include identifying the right way to spend time with friends, meditation, exercise, as well as further social support.
The first consultation with a health professional helps them find out why and when an individual began using drugs. The rehab center has health experts that discuss the effects of trauma and substance use on the clients.
Outpatient alcohol rehab programs provide structured sober living services for the clients during and after recovery. It also ensures that the affected clients gain sobriety and lead healthy lives.
Treatment Programs
Some of the programs available at an
outpatient rehab center include:
- Extended care and 12-step programs
- Evidence-based treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Family therapy programs
- Telehealth services
Start Your Journey to Recovery Today
Don’t let trauma and substance affect the quality of your life. Call a facility that is ready to help overcome the effects of trauma and alcohol abuse on men. Begin your search for a treatment center today.
