Women with a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis may find themselves unable to cope with their symptoms and then turn to alcohol or drugs as an escape. When that happens, intensive support from mental health professionals, family, and friends, can help them get their life back on track.
Next Steps
If you’re struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. At Casa Capri, we offer expert, women-centered care in a supportive and nurturing space—designed by women, for women. Our team is here to help you heal with purpose and connection.
Call our admissions team for a free, confidential chat—we’ll even check your insurance and estimate any costs upfront.
Different studies have shown that over half of women experience at least one traumatic event in their lives. The most common traumas are sexual assault and childhood sexual abuse, with around one-third of women being assaulted once in their lives. Additionally, military members and veterans often suffer from PTSD. The development of women and PTSD is also linked to the woman’s history and the context of the trauma. Thus, women with pre-existing mental health problems (depression or anxiety) or who had a severe reaction to the traumatic event and don’t have a good social network are at a much higher risk of developing PTSD.
For those seeking comprehensive trauma treatment for women, it is essential to find a program that understands the unique challenges women face. At Casa Capri Recovery, we specialize in PTSD treatment programs for women that provide a safe, supportive environment to heal from trauma while addressing co-occurring substance use disorders.
Helping Women Recover from PTSD and Addiction
Our expert, all-female staff of doctors, therapists and counselors will create a unique, individualized addiction treatment program just for you that includes our highly praised trauma treatment. You’ll feel at home and safe in our nurturing, women’s only, family-like environment located in Southern California.
At Casa Capri Recovery, we’ve helped many PTSD Women who are struggling with trauma and addiction recover and live joyfully again. You have given so much, now it’s time to get the support and healing you deserve.
How We Do It: Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Women
Whether it’s EMDR therapy or trauma-informed therapy, our programs include the newest and most effective therapies available today.
Depending on the type of PTSD and the seriousness of the condition, we use different types of psychotherapy to help our clients heal. Some of these therapies are aimed at minimizing the symptoms while others focus on social or family issues. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of our most used and trusted resources.
- Exposure therapy: whose purpose is to help people recognize and control their fear. The therapist exposes the trauma gradually and safely, using techniques such as writing, imagining or revisiting the place where the traumatic event occurred.
- Cognitive restructuring: can give people a correct sense of what happened. Sometimes, they may have different recollections of the event, may feel guilty or ashamed, although it was not their fault.
For those requiring a higher level of care, our women’s trauma residential treatment provides 24/7 support in a structured, healing environment. Here, women receive intensive therapy, peer support, and holistic treatments tailored to address both PTSD and addiction, empowering them to reclaim their lives.
Dual diagnosis treatment for women addresses both PTSD and addiction simultaneously, recognizing the complex relationship between trauma and substance use. By treating both conditions together, we help women develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve emotional regulation, and break free from the cycle of self-medication. Our holistic approach ensures long-term healing and recovery.
Next Steps
If you’re struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. At Casa Capri, we offer expert, women-centered care in a supportive and nurturing space—designed by women, for women. Our team is here to help you heal with purpose and connection.
Call our admissions team for a free, confidential chat—we’ll even check your insurance and estimate any costs upfront.
FAQs About PTSD and Addiction
What is the connection between PTSD and addiction?
People with PTSD often turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with trauma-related symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, and insomnia. Unfortunately, substance use can lead to addiction and worsen PTSD symptoms. This is why dual diagnosis treatment for women can be so effective because it treats both issues.
Why are people with PTSD at higher risk for addiction?
PTSD increases emotional distress and makes it difficult to regulate emotions, leading many to seek temporary relief through substance use. This cycle of self-medication can quickly lead to dependence and addiction.
Can addiction make PTSD symptoms worse?
Yes, addiction can intensify PTSD symptoms by increasing anxiety, depression, and emotional instability. Substance use also interferes with trauma recovery and can lead to more severe mental health challenges.
What is dual diagnosis treatment for PTSD and addiction?
Dual diagnosis treatment for women works to treat PTSD and addiction at the same time through therapy, medication, and support groups, and physical wellness. Treating both conditions together improves long-term recovery outcomes.
What therapies help with PTSD and addiction?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and trauma-focused therapy can help address both PTSD and addiction. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) may also support recovery.
How does alcohol affect PTSD recovery?
Alcohol can worsen PTSD symptoms by increasing impulsivity, depression, and sleep problems. While it may offer short-term relief, it ultimately disrupts healing and increases the risk of addiction.
Can PTSD treatment help overcome addiction?
Yes, treating PTSD through therapy and healthy coping strategies reduces the need to self-medicate. Addressing trauma can lower relapse risk and improve emotional resilience.
What are the risks of untreated PTSD and addiction?
Untreated PTSD and addiction can lead to worsening mental health, strained relationships, job loss, legal issues, and a higher risk of overdose or self-harm.
How can someone with PTSD avoid turning to substances?
Healthy coping strategies like therapy, mindfulness, exercise, and social support can help manage PTSD symptoms without relying on substances. Seeking professional help early is crucial.
Where can someone find help for PTSD and addiction?
Rehab centers, trauma-focused therapy, 12-step programs, and dual diagnosis specialists can provide support and treatment for both PTSD and addiction recovery. Call our team at Casa Capri Recovery to take your next step in your healing journey.
