June is PTSD Awareness Month. One of the most prominent statistics and harsh realities is the link between PTSD and addictions. It is alarming to look at the number of individuals who have PTSD and also have addictions.
The American Addictions Center just published an article articulating clearly the number of issues and connections between PTSD and addictions. The article begins with this statement.
About 50-66 percent of those who suffer from PTSD also battle simultaneous addiction, and the reverse is also true, TIME reports. People who suffer from PTSD are between two and four times more likely to also battle addiction than their peers who do not also struggle with PTSD, the journal Clinical Psychology publishes.
Here is the link to the rest of the article:
I have written previously about trauma and the opioids crisis. Similarly, post-traumatic stress
is a result of varied forms of trauma that has lingered in the memories and responses to past traumatic events. It is no surprise that there is such a significant connection between PTSD and addictions.
As we raise awareness to PTSD this month, we recognize that PTSD is not without serious life consequences emotionally, relationally, physically and spiritually. It is also a significant fact that we need to do so much more to provide help and therapy for those like our veterans who have significant traumatic events in their lives with these lingering life effects.
I hope we can continue with new legislation, funding and support for our veterans, our children and other adults who are suffering from serious post-traumatic stress. PTSD has too many serious effects with intense impact that require healing and hope for those suffering from this tragic syndrome.
Gerry Vassar
President/CEO
