June is PTSD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the pervasive impact of post-traumatic stress disorder and the importance of effective treatments. Women develop PTSD at approximately twice the rate as men, often due to uniquely traumatic experiences such as sexual assault and domestic violence. Unfortunately, PTSD in women frequently co-occurs with substance abuse, but The Pearl provides support and healing for clients with this dual diagnosis.
Common Symptoms of PTSD in Women
While trauma can affect people of any gender identity, women are more likely to encounter interpersonal violence. These intensely personal violations can leave lasting psychological scars, making PTSD more prevalent among women. PTSD can be particularly complex for women due to societal pressures and the stigma associated with trauma and mental health diagnoses.
PTSD may manifest in various symptoms that can affect your overall quality of life.
- Flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts
- Avoiding places, people, or activities that remind you of the trauma, severely limiting your daily routine
- Feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, and difficulty maintaining close relationships
- Startling easily, feeling tense, having difficulty sleeping, and experiencing angry outbursts
The Intersection Between PTSD and Substance Abuse
Women with PTSD may turn to alcohol or drugs to numb their pain or cope with distressing symptoms. However, substance use can complicate PTSD symptoms and treatment, creating a cycle that is challenging to break without professional help. Women with PTSD may use substances to self-medicate feelings of anxiety and depression, temporarily escape from painful memories, or manage their relationship difficulties.
At The Pearl, we recognize the profound impact of PTSD on women’s lives and the often-intertwined issue of substance abuse. Understanding the critical need to treat both components of a dual diagnosis simultaneously, our comprehensive approach includes the following.
- Every aspect of treatment acknowledges and respects our clients’ traumatic experiences, treating you with the compassion you deserve.
- Evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing have shown success in treating PTSD.
- Group therapy sessions provide a space for peer support and shared healing experiences, which are crucial for women dealing with PTSD.
- We encourage all our clients to participate in recreational activities that encourage fun, relaxation, and camaraderie.
Rediscover Your Joy
PTSD is a debilitating condition that disproportionately affects women, often complicated by the co-occurrence of substance abuse. Recognizing the signs of PTSD and understanding the need for specialized care are critical for recovery.
The Pearl is here for you if you have a dual diagnosis of PTSD and substance abuse. During PTSD Awareness Month, remember that healing is possible, and reaching out for help signifies your commitment to personal growth and improvement.
