PTSD and Addiction Treatment in Texas
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) develops after exposure to severe trauma, disrupting emotional and psychological well-being. Many individuals unknowingly struggle with its effects, which can influence behavior, relationships, and daily functioning.
At Cypress Lake Recovery in Texas, we believe compassionate care can help individuals process trauma and rebuild their resilience. Recognizing the symptoms of PTSD is the first step toward healing. Compassionate support helps provide the tools needed to move forward.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a distressing event. It can cause emotional distress that lasts even when the danger has passed.
Some people develop C-PTSD (Complex PTSD), which stems from repeated trauma over time, such as abuse or long-term adversity. C-PTSD often involves deeper emotional struggles, like severe self-worth issues or difficulty regulating emotions. Childhood trauma, including abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction, can contribute to both PTSD and C-PTSD.
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Symptoms of PTSD
- Intrusive Memories: Vivid, unwanted recollections of the trauma that feel uncontrollable.
- Flashbacks: Episodes where the person feels or acts as if the trauma is recurring.
- Distressing dreams: Frequent nightmares replaying the traumatic event or similar frightening scenarios.
- Physical reactions: Physiological responses (such as a racing heart or sweating) to reminders of trauma.
- Situational avoidance: Steering clear of places, people or conversations associated with the trauma.
- Memory suppression: Active efforts to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event.
- Emotional numbing: Struggling to feel positive emotions or feeling disconnected from those around you.
- Negative self-perception: Persistent and distorted beliefs about oneself (“I’m bad,” “the world is perilous”).
- Memory problems: Trouble remembering key aspects of the traumatic event.
- Diminished interest: Loss of pleasure in previously enjoyed activities.
- Detachment: Experiencing emotional distance from family and friends.
- Hypervigilance: Always feeling alert and watchful of possible dangers.
- Startle response: Exaggerated reactions to unexpected noises or movements
- Irritability: Frequent angry outbursts or aggressive behavior
- Sleep disturbance: Difficulty falling or staying asleep; restless nights
How Can PTSD Lead to Addiction?
Constant emotional pain leads many to seek escape through substances. Alcohol or drugs may also temporarily numb painful memories or flashbacks. Some use substances to quiet hypervigilance and calm their racing thoughts. Others rely on them to sleep through persistent nightmares. The relief feels like the only way to function day-to-day.
Self-medication becomes a dangerous cycle as tolerance builds. What begins as occasional substance use may soon lead to dependence. Substances may initially ease anxiety, but can ultimately worsen PTSD symptoms over time. The crash after using an addictive substance to cope often intensifies depression and isolation. Withdrawal can amplify PTSD symptoms like irritability and panic.
Many may not realize that dependency on their coping method has become its own problem. The shame of addiction can add another layer to trauma’s weight. Professional treatment addresses both PTSD and addiction together for true healing.
Testimonials
Regina
I am so happy that I chose Sabino to begin my recovery. I have suffered for years from depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and PTSD. The programs that are offered here at Sabino have been truly phenomenal in helping me recover. I also appreciated the professional staff that are here on duty 24/7, which helps create a safe environment. Cypress Lake Recovery uses effective “one on one” methods that meet each person’s individual needs because they evaluate and have a better understanding of your personal traumatic experiences. Thanks Sabino, I am truly grateful to you and the Sabino family.
J.A.
A beautiful facility! Staff sets the tone and kindness that residents easily follow. Thank you, Cypress Lake Recovery!
Pamela
The program at Cypress Lake Recovery works! I emerged from an accumulation of unrecognized emotions, issues of trust, and unresolved grief and loss. 35-days of effective integration of customized quality therapy reconnected my mind, body, spirit, and I am worth it! I had masked emotions and hurtful events for decades with alcohol. At Cypress Lake Recovery I safely focused deep within to unleash harmful secrets and self-degradation. Tools of recovery were practiced, not just presented. Integrative therapies were tailored to my circumstances, thus were effective. This residential program is like no other. For me, Cypress Lake Recovery delivered what was professed. I am forever grateful for this gift of healing.
Mike
Life changing experience. Wonderful staff. Wonderful program. Thanks for everything!
Darcy
It was great to begin my recovery in a group environment with so many knowledgeable nurses, therapists, BHT’s, and others around for support. The equine therapy, challenge course, family week, and daily therapies all work together seamlessly, allowing me to leave Sabino as a healthier and stronger person!
How Can Addiction Hinder PTSD Treatment?
In Texas, Addiction creates a barrier to PTSD recovery by disrupting the brain’s natural healing process. While substances might temporarily relieve symptoms, they ultimately prevent proper trauma processing and emotional regulation. Alcohol and drugs interfere with therapy effectiveness by clouding judgment and memory.
The cycle of substance use usually leads to increased isolation and shame. Substance use can worsen depression and anxiety symptoms that often accompany PTSD over time. Withdrawal symptoms can mimic PTSD, making diagnosis and addiction treatment more complex.
Impaired impulse control from addiction leads to riskier behaviors. Sleep disturbances from substance use can aggravate PTSD-related insomnia and nightmares. Financial and relationship stress from addiction also adds more layers of complexity to trauma treatment.
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What is Dual Diagnosis?
A dual diagnosis means someone has both a mental health disorder (like PTSD) and a substance use disorder at the same time. These conditions often feed off each other. PTSD may drive substance use as self-medication, while addiction worsens PTSD symptoms. Treating them separately leads to incomplete healing, as unresolved trauma can trigger relapse.
A comprehensive approach addresses both issues together through integrated treatment and therapy. Mental health professionals help the person process trauma their while addiction specialists can help manage addiction-based healing.
This dual focus frequently leads to more stable recovery progress and better long-term outcomes. Patients learn healthier coping skills to replace substance use. Medication may help with the brain chemistry effects of both conditions. Therapy helps to uncover the root connections between trauma and addiction, empowering the person on both issues.
Relapse risk typically drops when PTSD symptoms improve through proper treatment. Recovery becomes more sustainable when both disorders are managed simultaneously. This whole-person approach tends to lead to better emotional regulation and life skills.
Therapy Options for PTSD and Addiction
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This technique focuses on reprocessing traumatic memories to reduce their emotional impact. It can help people work through distressing experiences while managing addiction triggers.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This now-famous therapy technique helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and practice healthier coping skills. It’s widely used for both PTSD and addiction recovery.
- Trauma-informed care: This overall approach creates a safe space for healing by recognizing the effects of trauma on behavior. It encourages trust, empowerment, and self-awareness in recovery.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): A key part of addiction treatment, this can support addiction recovery while addressing PTSD symptoms. Some medications help reduce cravings and stabilize mood.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Often used in sync with other techniques, DBT builds emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills. It helps individuals manage PTSD-related emotions while reducing impulsive behaviors linked to addiction.
- Seeking Safety: This therapy technique is designed specifically for PTSD and addiction. It focuses on building coping skills, setting boundaries, and managing triggers.
Each therapy technique for mental health works differently, and a personalized treatment plan can use different techniques to provide the best support for long-term healing.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for PTSD and Addiction
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) can support recovery by reducing cravings, managing withdrawal, and stabilizing mood when combined with therapy. Certain medications help regulate brain chemistry, making it easier to focus on healing without overwhelming distress. Therapy helps the person process trauma while medications support long-term sobriety.
Examples of MAT for PTSD and addiction include:
- PTSD and opioid addiction: Medications like buprenorphine and methadone reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. They work by stabilizing brain function while therapy addresses trauma and coping skills. Naltrexone can also be used to block opioid effects and prevent relapse.
- PTSD and alcohol addiction: Medications such as acamprosate and naltrexone help manage cravings and reduce relapse risk. Disulfiram helps deter alcohol use by triggering uncomfortable reactions when alcohol is ingested.
- For PTSD and nicotine addiction: Medications like varenicline and bupropion can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. They make quitting easier while therapy focuses on stress management and trauma recovery.
- PTSD and stimulant addiction: Research on effective treatment medications is ongoing. Some antidepressants may help regulate mood and reduce cravings.
Combining MAT with therapy creates a more balanced approach, addressing both physical dependence and emotional healing.
Receive Support for PTSD and Addiction at Cypress Lake Recovery
The First Responders Recovery Program at Cypress Lake Recovery provides trauma-focused care for those in high-stress professions, offering therapy, peer support, and coping strategies to address PTSD and addiction.
Healing from addiction and PTSD also involves creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe discussing their experiences. Group and individual therapy sessions in Texas, offer opportunities to connect with others and gain valuable insights. Holistic approaches encourage self-awareness, relaxation, and emotional balance, complementing traditional therapies.
By integrating multiple forms of care, Cypress Lake Recovery tailors treatment to each person’s unique needs. The goal is to help individuals rebuild their lives with confidence and stability. If you or a loved one needs support, contact us today.
