How PTSD Increases the Risk of Addiction

Written by Hollywood Detox Editors Published on 6 Apr 2025

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and addiction are two serious conditions that often go hand in hand. PTSD can occur after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events—such as violence, accidents, or natural disasters—and is marked by intense fear, flashbacks, and emotional numbness. Addiction, or substance use disorder (SUD), involves the compulsive use of substances despite harmful consequences.

The connection between PTSD and addiction is deeply rooted in how the brain responds to trauma. In fact, studies show that up to 50% of individuals with PTSD also develop a substance use disorder. This co-occurrence, known as a dual diagnosis, requires specialized care.

In Los Angeles, where diverse populations and high-stress urban living intersect, detox clinics are seeing a growing need for integrated, trauma-informed treatment programs. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, understanding the link between PTSD and addiction is the first step toward recovery.

What Is the Connection Between PTSD and Addiction?

The link between PTSD and addiction begins with how trauma affects the brain and behavior. People with PTSD often use substances—like alcohol, opioids, or stimulants—as a form of self-medication. These substances can temporarily numb painful emotions, improve sleep, or quiet intrusive memories.

Neurological Impacts of Trauma

PTSD alters brain function in several ways:

Dopamine dysregulation makes it harder to experience pleasure naturally, increasing the allure of substances that trigger dopamine release.
Amygdala hyperactivity, which heightens fear and stress responses, can keep people in a constant state of alertness.
Prefrontal cortex disruption affects decision-making and impulse control, making it harder to resist substance use.

Numerous studies confirm that individuals with PTSD are significantly more likely to misuse substances. The National Center for PTSD reports that about 46.4% of individuals with lifetime PTSD also meet criteria for substance use disorder, especially when left untreated.

Why Are People with PTSD More Likely to Develop Addictions?

Several psychological, biological, and social factors explain this increased risk.

Psychological Factors

Avoidance coping: Many people with PTSD try to avoid distressing memories by using drugs or alcohol.
Hyperarousal: Constant feelings of danger can lead to insomnia and anxiety, prompting substance use to “calm down.”
Emotional numbness: Substances may seem like a way to “feel something” again—or to stop feeling altogether.

Biological Factors

Chronic trauma alters brain chemistry. The stress hormone cortisol remains elevated, and long-term changes in the brain’s reward system make addiction more likely. Genetic predisposition can also increase vulnerability.

Isolation: PTSD often causes withdrawal from friends, family, and society.
Stigma: Many people with PTSD feel ashamed to ask for help.
Lack of support: Without strong social networks or access to trauma-informed care, people may turn to substances as a last resort.

Which Addictions Are Most Common in Individuals with PTSD?

People with PTSD tend to gravitate toward substances or behaviors that temporarily relieve their symptoms.

Substance Addictions

Alcohol is commonly used to dull emotional pain or help with sleep.
Opioids offer intense physical relief and emotional detachment.
Stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine may be used to combat fatigue or dissociation.

Behavioral Addictions

Trauma can also lead to:

Gambling
Compulsive eating
Sexual addiction These behaviors offer momentary relief but carry long-term consequences.

In Los Angeles, data from the California Department of Health Services shows elevated rates of alcohol and opioid use among veterans, first responders, and assault survivors—demographics with a high prevalence of PTSD. Clinics in neighborhoods like Hollywood, Downtown LA, and Santa Monica are seeing increased admissions for dual-diagnosis detox care.

How Can I Recognize PTSD and Addiction in Myself or a Loved One?

Early identification can save lives. Recognizing the signs of PTSD and addiction allows for timely intervention.

Signs of PTSD

Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts
Nightmares and sleep disturbances
Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle responses
Emotional numbness or withdrawal
Irritability, anger, or guilt

Signs of Addiction

Secretive or deceptive behavior
Changes in appetite, sleep, or hygiene
Financial issues related to substance use
Loss of interest in hobbies or relationships
Using substances to “feel normal” or “escape”

Red Flags for Dual Diagnosis

Relying on drugs or alcohol to sleep
Using substances to reduce panic attacks or anxiety
Refusal to talk about trauma or mental health

If you recognize these patterns in yourself or someone close to you, it may be time to reach out to a dual-diagnosis detox clinic in Los Angeles for evaluation and support.

What Treatment Options Are Effective for PTSD and Addiction?

Recovery from co-occurring PTSD and addiction requires integrated, evidence-based treatment that addresses both conditions simultaneously.

Integrated Dual-Diagnosis Programs

These programs combine:

Trauma-informed care: Therapists trained to understand the effects of trauma.
Addiction treatment: Detox, behavioral therapy, and relapse prevention.

Evidence-Based Therapies

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Helps reprocess traumatic memories.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Challenges unhelpful beliefs and builds coping strategies.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Improves emotional regulation and mindfulness.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

For some, combining therapy with medications can improve outcomes:

SSRIs or SNRIs for depression and anxiety
Buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone for opioid addiction
Anti-craving medications for alcohol use disorder

Los Angeles detox clinics that offer these services often customize treatment plans to reflect the individual’s trauma history, cultural background, and recovery goals.

Why Choose a Los Angeles Detox Clinic for PTSD and Addiction?

Los Angeles is home to leading-edge detox and rehab facilities that specialize in dual-diagnosis care.

Benefits of LA Clinics

Access to experienced, licensed therapists who specialize in trauma recovery
Holistic healing options: Yoga, meditation, mindfulness therapy, acupuncture
Supportive environments in scenic neighborhoods like Hollywood Hills, Santa Monica, and Pasadena

Access to Local Resources

Veterans Affairs (VA) programs for combat-related trauma
Support groups like Trauma Anonymous or SMART Recovery
Partnerships with community mental health centers for long-term care

What to Look for in a Clinic

Accreditation and licensing
Personalized treatment plans
Aftercare services: Sober housing, outpatient therapy, alumni groups

When choosing a detox clinic, proximity to local support networks in LA—such as trauma therapists, peer groups, and housing resources—can make a world of difference in long-term recovery.

How Can Families Support a Loved One with PTSD and Addiction?

Support from family and friends can be a crucial part of recovery. However, it must be balanced with healthy boundaries and informed guidance.

Effective Communication Strategies

Use nonjudgmental language: “I’m here for you” instead of “You need help.”
Validate their experiences without minimizing trauma.
Encourage treatment without coercion.

Setting Boundaries

Clearly define what behaviors are unacceptable (e.g., substance use in the home).
Don’t enable or cover up addiction-related consequences.
Prioritize your own mental health and seek therapy if needed.

Family Resources in Los Angeles

Al-Anon and Nar-Anon meetings in West LA, Glendale, and the San Fernando Valley
Family therapy programs through local clinics
Educational workshops from community centers or nonprofit organizations

What Steps Can Reduce the Risk of Addiction in PTSD Patients?

While not all individuals with PTSD will develop an addiction, preventive strategies can make a big impact.

Early Intervention

Begin trauma therapy as soon as PTSD symptoms are identified.
Encourage regular check-ins with a mental health professional.

Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Regular exercise and movement-based therapies
Art, music, and journaling
Group therapy and peer-led trauma support groups

Los Angeles Prevention Programs

Department of Mental Health (DMH) community clinics
Mental Health First Aid workshops for youth and adults
School and workplace education initiatives in areas like South LA, Venice, and Burbank

By building emotional resilience and community support, people with PTSD can lower their risk of turning to substances.

FAQs

Can PTSD cause drug addiction?

Yes. PTSD can significantly increase the risk of drug addiction due to the tendency to self-medicate symptoms like anxiety, nightmares, and hypervigilance. The cycle of trauma and substance use is well documented in both clinical research and real-world recovery settings.

What is the best treatment for PTSD and addiction?

The most effective approach is an integrated, trauma-informed dual-diagnosis program that addresses both mental health and substance use issues at the same time. Many top detox clinics in Los Angeles offer this comprehensive care.

How long does detox take for someone with PTSD?

Medical detox typically lasts 5 to 7 days, but this may vary depending on the substance used and the individual’s physical and psychological health. PTSD symptoms may require additional stabilization before entering long-term rehab.

Are there free PTSD and addiction resources in Los Angeles?

Yes. LA offers:

LA County Department of Mental Health sliding-scale clinics
The People Concern
Nonprofits like Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services that provide trauma therapy and addiction counseling

Conclusion

The relationship between PTSD and addiction is complex—but recovery is possible with the right treatment and support. Whether you or your loved one is living with unresolved trauma, struggling with addiction, or both, seeking help is the bravest and most life-changing step you can take.

At HollywoodDetox.com, we specialize in compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals with dual diagnoses. Our Los Angeles detox clinic offers personalized programs in a supportive, healing environment.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation—and begin the journey to recovery, hope, and healing.