PTSD and Alcoholism

Submitted by Mark Berman Wed 06/29/2011

Virtually every study conducted on the subject has found a definite link between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and alcoholism.

About.com said one such study found that 52% of men and 28% of women with PTSD also have an alcohol problem. Among non-PTSD sufferers, those numbers sink to 25% and 10%, respectively.

There are several theories as to why this is so:

High-Risk Theory
This theory states that the substance abuse occurs before the PTSD, and that using alcohol puts people at greater risk for a traumatic event.

Self-Medication Theory
PTSD sufferers use alcohol to deal with the stress that PTSD brings.

Susceptibility Theory
About.com writes:
The susceptibility theory suggests that there is something about alcohol and drug use that may increase a person's risk for developing PTSD symptoms after experiencing a traumatic event.

Shared Vulnerability Theory
People may have a genetic vulnerability towards both substance abuse and PTSD.

Research has found evidence that each theory may be correct. Regardless of why, people with PTSD must guard against alcoholism, and vice versa.

Treatment Options

: Call to Speak to a Specialist

Call 1-888-715-8432 Anytime To Get Help If you or a loved one suffers from an addiction and needs help.

Treatment Center State and City Search

To search by State and City instead of by Zip Code / Postal Code, select a state from the list below.

Select a State Below

Support Groups

SupportGroups.com

For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.

Online Support Groups

Diseases Caused by Alcoholism
When you talk about diseases that alcoholism can cause, most people focus on liver disease. Indeed, alcohol can harm and eventually destroy the liver if a person drinks enough. But liver problems are …
Alcoholism and Pregnancy
It's a simple fact that all of us know -- pregnant women should not drink alcohol. However many women stunningly still do it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists five things every …
Painkiller Addiction Symptoms
Addiction to painkillers is a growing problem in the United States, as many doctors are quick to prescribe drugs for even the mildest of pain, and patients don't know when to stop taking them. Ther…
Overcoming Sex Addiction
Since celebrities like Tiger Woods have admitted to sex addiction, treatment for the problem has skyrocketed. The mental health community is still arguing whether sex addiction is even a real ailment.…

The information provided on AddictionInfo.org is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of AddictionInfo.org nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.

Treatment Center Directory

Find a Treatment Center

If you or a loved one is suffering from an addiction and need help entering into recovery then we are here to offer help in any way we can. We have over 14,000 Treatment Centers listed on our Directory. You can search by Zip Code, City or State. Click here to search for a Treatment Center that is right for you.

Online Support Groups

SupportGroups.com provides a support network for those facing life's challenges. Click on the following links to get the support in a confidential, caring environment.

Support Groups