Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Therapy in Los Angeles, CA
PTSD Therapy is necessary because trauma can significantly impact an individual’s mental health. Trauma happens if a distressing or disturbing event exceeds one’s coping ability. Trauma can take many forms, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, natural disasters, accidents, or witnessing violence. Traumatic experiences can result in multiple mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse disorders.
Trauma can trigger changes in brain function that can lead to mental health disorders. Traumatic experiences can activate the body’s stress response system, releasing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline that prepare the body to respond to danger. In some cases, this stress response can become chronically activated, leading to changes in brain chemistry that can cause anxiety and depression.
Trauma can result in the development of PTSD, a mental health disorder that occurs after exposure to a traumatic event.
Symptoms of PTSD can include intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance of trauma-related triggers, and hypervigilance. People with PTSD may also experience significant impairment in their ability to function in daily life.
The Trauma-Substance Abuse Connection
The connection between trauma and substance abuse disorders is well-established. Trauma can lead to the development of substance abuse disorders, and those with substance abuse disorders are likelier to have a history of trauma. Substance abuse can be a form of self-medication for many who have experienced trauma, as drugs and alcohol can temporarily relieve the distressing symptoms of PTSD or other mental health disorders.
Research has shown that trauma can alter the brain’s reward system, increasing the risk of addiction. Traumatic experiences can change how the brain processes dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in pleasure and reward. These changes can increase the likelihood of a person engaging in substance use to experience pleasure and alleviate negative feelings.
People with a history of trauma who develop substance abuse disorders may experience more severe and long-lasting symptoms than those without a trauma history. They may also have a more difficult time in treatment, as addressing substance abuse can trigger traumatic memories and associated emotions.
PTSD and Addiction
The impact of trauma on mental health can be severe and long-lasting, and it can lead to the development of numerous mental health disorders. When someone experiences trauma, it can cause changes in the brain’s chemistry and function, leading to an increased risk of developing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Neglected trauma has become increasingly associated with addiction, as people may resort to substance abuse to self-medicate and escape their pain. Using drugs or alcohol can temporarily alleviate distressing trauma symptoms, but it can ultimately worsen mental health symptoms and lead to addiction.
Traumatic events may occur in various forms and durations. For example, someone may experience a single traumatic event, such as a car accident or assault. Alternatively, they may experience ongoing trauma, such as emotional or physical abuse.
The duration, intensity, & frequency of trauma can impact the person’s mental health & the likelihood of developing mental health disorders or addiction.
It is crucial to recognize the manifestations of trauma and provide appropriate treatment plans before the cycle exacerbates, leading to further suffering due to substance abuse. PTSD therapy treatment plans may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Treatment depends on their needs and the severity of their symptoms. Effective treatment can help manage trauma symptoms and reduce the risk of developing an addiction or worsening mental health symptoms.
What types of trauma cause PTSD?
Trauma can take many forms and can have a significant impact on mental and physical health.
Some of the most frequent and distressing types of trauma include:
- Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse: This type of trauma can occur in childhood or adulthood and involves physical, emotional, or sexual harm inflicted by someone in a position of power over the victim.
- Observing violence: Witnessing violence, such as domestic violence, community violence, or violence in a warzone, can cause trauma and have long-lasting effects on mental health.
- Experiencing severe accidents or illnesses: Trauma can occur as a result of experiencing severe accidents, such as car accidents or workplace accidents, or severe illnesses that impact on their ability to function.
- Surviving a natural catastrophe: Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods, can cause trauma and lead to long-lasting effects on mental and physical health.
- Assault or domestic violence as a victim or witness: Trauma can occur due to being a victim of or witnessing assault or domestic violence.
- Serving in a combat zone: Military personnel who have served in combat zones may experience trauma from exposure to violent and traumatic events.
These types of trauma can profoundly impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse disorders. People who have experienced trauma should seek appropriate treatment to address their mental health and prevent the cycle of addiction.
What causes PTSD?
When a traumatic event occurs, our bodies naturally activate the stress response system, which protects us from harm. This system releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which prepare our bodies to respond to danger. However, someone with PTSD may experience an imbalance in this system. It can result in physical and psychological impairments from excessive or insufficient cortisol levels.
Excessive cortisol levels can lead to anxiety, anger issues, and insomnia, while insufficient cortisol levels can result in fatigue, apathy, and depression. These imbalances can significantly impact the ability to function in daily life. They can contribute to developing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
At Avedis Recovery, we recognize trauma can lead to substance use disorders.
People may use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate and alleviate the distressing symptoms of PTSD or other mental health issues. This can lead to the development of addiction, further worsening mental health symptoms and creating a cycle of addiction and trauma.
We provide tailored PTSD therapy and additional programs to address these challenges to support our clients. Our trauma-informed care approach recognizes that trauma can impact everyone differently and requires a personalized approach to treatment. We offer a variety of evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), to address the underlying causes of addiction and trauma.
We offer programs such as group therapy, family therapy, adventure therapy, and holistic therapies to support our client’s overall well-being and provide them with the tools they need to achieve lasting recovery. Our goal is to empower our clients to heal from trauma, overcome addiction, and achieve a fulfilling and meaningful life in recovery.
How does PTSD start?
Following a traumatic event, people may experience impairment in producing endorphins. The body makes natural painkillers in response to stress or trauma. This can render them vulnerable and more prone to addiction. They may use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate to alleviate PTSD-related symptoms such as depression, anxiety, irritability, or flashbacks.
Unfortunately, this only exacerbates both conditions, leading to a challenging cycle between mental health issues and substance abuse that necessitates additional attention in treatment. Often they use drugs or alcohol to cope with the symptoms of PTSD. They may develop a tolerance to the substance, leading to an increased risk of addiction. Furthermore, substance abuse can worsen symptoms of PTSD, leading to a cycle of addiction and mental health issues.
Anyone who has experienced trauma and has developed addiction MUST receive appropriate treatment to address both conditions.
The co-occurring nature of PTSD and addiction requires an integrated approach to treatment that addresses the underlying causes of both. Effective treatment should include therapies that target both mental health and addiction, including trauma-focused therapy.
Address any underlying medical or psychiatric conditions that may contribute to the development of addiction or worsening symptoms of PTSD. Medications may be necessary to manage symptoms of PTSD or co-occurring mental health issues.
Treating PTSD and Addiction in Los Angeles, CA
PTSD and addiction can both stem from a common source – the brain. Trauma can cause changes in brain function and chemistry, leading to PTSD and increasing the risk of addiction. PTSD and addiction can also exacerbate one another, leading to a vicious cycle of symptoms and behaviors.
At Avedis Recovery, we offer comprehensive PTSD therapy and addiction treatment. We recognize and address the underlying causes of trauma and addiction to promote lasting recovery. Our treatment approach includes evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address the underlying causes of trauma and addiction.
CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors that may contribute to addiction and PTSD symptoms. DBT helps them regulate their emotions, cope with stress, and improve their relationships with others. EMDR is a specialized form of therapy that allows them to process and manage traumatic memories.
Our carefully crafted holistic care plan relieves the suffering caused by these co-occurring dual diagnosis issues. We provide personalized and comprehensive care to address unique needs and support them in achieving lasting recovery.
Our goal is to empower our clients to heal from trauma, overcome addiction, and live a fulfilling and meaningful life in recovery.
If you or someone you know is grappling with addiction and unresolved trauma, Avedis Recovery is here to help. We understand that trauma and addiction often go hand in hand, and addressing both issues is crucial for long-term recovery.
PTSD Therapy and Addiction Treatment in California
Our comprehensive program provides a holistic approach to healing both PTSD and substance use disorders effectively. We offer evidence-based therapies, medication-assisted treatments (MAT), and experiential activities tailored to unique needs. Our team of trained professionals, including licensed therapists and medical professionals, provides compassionate care and support throughout the recovery journey.
At Avedis Recovery, we believe that recovery is possible for everyone. Our mission is to help our clients regain freedom from the burden of addiction and unresolved trauma. Our program includes personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of both conditions. We help our clients develop healthy coping strategies and behaviors that support lasting recovery.
Seeking help for addiction and trauma can be difficult. We are here to support and guide you every step of the way. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to answer any questions and provide support as you begin your journey toward healing. We offer a safe and supportive environment where folks can explore their past trauma, learn new coping skills, and work towards a better future.
Learn More About PTSD Therapy at Avedis Detox
Contact us today via phone (833) 514-0579 or online form to learn more about our program. We can help you or your loved one achieve lasting recovery. We provide personalized care that empowers clients to regain control of their lives and attain a fulfilling and meaningful life in recovery.
