Addiction and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Rehab Treatment

Road to recovery at Castle Craig

Inpatient Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders

Castle Craig is a leading UK rehab centre providing specialist care for addiction and support for PTSD and trauma.
01721 546 263 Book Addiction Assessment

Both PTSD and addiction can feel like a heavy burden on a person’s life. We understand how a distressing experience can intertwine with substance misuse, creating a challenging cycle that is hard to break. At Castle Craig, we specialise in residential addiction treatment for this dual diagnosis. Our skilled team provides dedicated support for both trauma and drug or alcohol addiction, helping you find emotional stability and a new way forward.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and addiction are two conditions that are closely linked. PTSD can cause anxiety, depression and insomnia, which can lead an individual to seek coping mechanisms as a form of self-medication. Substance misuse may provide temporary relief but can also worsen the symptoms of PTSD and result in dependency. If you are looking for comprehensive, residential treatment for addiction and PTSD, call us today on 01721 546 263, or read on for more information.

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental health disorder that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. While PTSD is often associated with military combat, it can affect anyone who has gone through a life-threatening, terrifying or violent personal experience.

Natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist attacks, war and sexual violence are other events that can lead to the development of PTSD. The disorder can present itself in several ways, including the following:

  • Intrusive memories or flashbacks
  • Avoidance of triggers or reminders of the traumatic event
  • Negative changes in mood and cognition
  • Hyperarousal or being easily startled. 

People with PTSD may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, gastrointestinal distress, chronic pain and fatigue. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or cultural background. It is a complex disorder that can be difficult to diagnose and treat, but it’s important to seek help if you believe you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms. With the proper treatment and support, recovery is possible.

It’s important to remember that not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop PTSD. While most traumatised people experience short-term symptoms, many recover from initial symptoms naturally. A small percentage will continue to experience problems and may be diagnosed with PTSD. Those with the disorder may feel stressed or frightened, even when no danger is present, leading to potential substance misuse in order to cope.

What is PTSD & Addiction as a Co-Occurring Disorder?

This co-occurring disorder happens when a person has PTSD and a substance misuse issue at the same time. People often use drugs or alcohol to try to manage distressing symptoms of trauma, like flashbacks or nightmares. This self-medication is an attempt to find temporary relief from pain.

While substances may offer brief comfort, they ultimately prevent a person from dealing with the trauma. This can worsen PTSD symptoms and deepen the addiction. Because the conditions feed off one another, finding a coordinated treatment that addresses both PTSD and addiction simultaneously is essential for lasting recovery.

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Rehab for Substance Addiction and PTSD

Worried about PTSD and drug or alcohol addiction? Call our residential treatment team today and start your path to recovery.
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What is PTSD and Addiction Rehab Treatment?

PTSD and addiction rehab treatment provides specialised care for individuals who are experiencing both post-traumatic stress disorder and substance misuse. These dual conditions often reinforce one another, requiring a holistic approach that addresses PTSD and alcohol addiction rehab, as well as PTSD and drug addiction treatment, in one integrated treatment programme.

Not all rehab clinics are equipped to support both conditions together; some rehab clinics specialise in either addiction or mental health alone. Castle Craig takes a whole-person approach, developing comprehensive treatment plans that address both PTSD and addiction. Each individual is supported with tailored care, ensuring their unique needs are met in a compassionate and secure environment.

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

A doctor with experience in treating mental illnesses, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can diagnose PTSD. To be diagnosed, you must have experienced recognised symptoms (outlined below) for at least a month, and they must be severe enough to interfere with daily life. 

Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms can vary widely in severity and frequency from person to person. Some individuals recover within six months, while others may experience symptoms that last much longer. In some cases, the condition may become chronic.

  • Re-Experiencing Symptoms

    A person with PTSD will often experience flashbacks, bad dreams or frightening thoughts. These are not just memories; they are powerful reminders that make a person feel like they are reliving the traumatic event. It is a distressing way for the mind to replay a past experience.

    Reminders of the traumatic event, like certain words, objects or places, can bring back symptoms. This makes a person feel constantly on edge and affects their daily routine. It can also cause serious problems with sleep patterns, as a person may struggle with nightmares or insomnia.

  • Avoidance Symptoms

    Individuals experiencing these symptoms tend to avoid places, events or objects that remind them of the traumatic experience. They may also try to actively avoid thoughts or feelings related to the distressing event.

    Avoidance symptoms can cause a person to change their daily routine. For example, someone who usually drives may avoid driving or riding in a car after a car accident. Reminders of the traumatic event can trigger these symptoms, interfering with daily activities and relationships.

  • Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms

    Arousal and reactivity symptoms include the following:

    • Being quickly frightened
    • Feeling anxious or “on edge”
    • Having trouble getting to sleep
    • Experiencing outbursts of anger.

    These symptoms can be constant, rather than triggered by reminders of the traumatic event. They can make it difficult to perform daily tasks such as sleeping, eating or concentrating, and can cause the person to feel stressed and angry.

  • Cognition and Mood Symptoms

    A person with PTSD will often experience changes in their thinking. They may hold strong negative beliefs about themselves or the world, feeling they are to blame for what happened. It is also common to have trouble remembering parts of the traumatic event.

    Moods also change, with a person experiencing persistent negative emotions like fear, anger or guilt. A loss of interest in activities once enjoyed is common. Many people also feel distant from others and unable to feel positive emotions, experiencing a sense of emotional numbness.

  • Symptoms of PTSD in Children

    When a child experiences PTSD, their symptoms can be quite different from those seen in adults. Very young children might show distress through physical signs like bedwetting or forgetfulness. They may also act out the traumatic event during playtime, or become overly dependent on a parent or other trusted adult, seeking constant reassurance.

    As children get older, especially into their teenage years, their PTSD symptoms tend to become more like those of adults. They might exhibit disruptive or destructive behaviour, struggle with feelings of guilt, or even have thoughts of revenge. These reactions reflect their developing understanding of the trauma and their attempts to cope with overwhelming feelings.

To be diagnosed with PTSD, a person must present with, as a minimum, the following:

  • One re-experiencing symptom 
  • One avoidance symptom
  • Two arousal and reactivity symptoms
  • Two cognition and mood symptoms.

It’s also important to note that PTSD is not the only possible outcome after experiencing a traumatic event. Some individuals may experience other mental health conditions like depression, anxiety or substance use disorders. 

Free Assessment for PTSD and Addiction

We offer free PTSD and substance addiction assessments as part of our admissions process.

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What Kind of Traumatic Event Can Cause PTSD?

According to the National Center for PTSD, more than 7% of Americans are likely to develop PTSD at some point in their lives. Women are more susceptible than men, and some individuals may be more prone to developing it due to genetic factors.

Post-traumatic stress disorder can affect anyone who has experienced a violent, unexpected or shocking event that is difficult to process. It can occur whether the trauma is experienced firsthand or witnessed from a distance. Some research shows you’re more likely to develop PTSD if you have to deal with extra stress after a traumatic event, such as enduring pain or injury, loss of a job or the death of a loved one.

  • Traumatic Events That Can Cause PTSD and Addiction

    There are no established standards for determining the leading cause of PTSD. However, it is not uncommon for PTSD to result from witnessing or experiencing any of the following:

    • Accidents or natural disasters
    • Witnessing execution or others being killed or hurt
    • Robbery
    • Military combat
    • Sexual assault or rape
    • Kidnapping or hostage situations
    • Imprisonment
    • Marital infidelity
    • Traumatic childbirth
    • Death of a loved one
    • Political or civil unrest
    • Being diagnosed with a terminal disease
    • Physical assault, bullying, or harassmente

  • Other Factors That Increase the Risk of Developing PTSD

    While it’s true that not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop PTSD, there are some risk factors that may increase your chances of developing this mental health condition. They include the following:

    • Exposure to multiple dangerous or traumatic events
    • History of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
    • Neglect during childhood
    • History of alcohol or substance misuse
    • Witnessing a dead or mutilated body
    • History of mental health conditions
    • Lack of social support
    • Genetic predisposition.

Link Between PTSD and Drug or Alcohol Misuse

Medical professionals see PTSD and addiction as closely related. Sometimes a person starts using drugs or alcohol to cope with trauma symptoms. Other times, PTSD can develop after a person has a substance addiction. Regardless of which issue appears first, addressing both together is important for a full recovery.

People with PTSD have a higher chance of being diagnosed with substance misuse disorder. This happens because someone with trauma may try to deal with their symptoms by using substances, believing this will help them escape difficult feelings. People with PTSD and substance use disorder are more likely to suffer from alcohol addiction, though some also develop addiction to drugs.

Studies have found that military personnel and veterans who drink a lot are more prone to PTSD and depression. War veterans with PTSD are also more likely to have binge drinking problems. Post-traumatic stress disorder is also linked to veterans who have experienced sexual assault or harassment during their service, with about one in five female veterans receiving a diagnosis of military sexual trauma.

Why Do People with PTSD Use Drugs and Alcohol?

A common reason for substance misuse in PTSD is to cope with difficult symptoms. However, using substances in this way is often counterproductive and causes further problems. For example, people with PTSD may smoke more, but the stimulant effects of nicotine can actually intensify feelings of being on edge and lead to more intrusive memories. Quitting smoking is also harder for people with PTSD.

Alcohol is another frequent choice because it is easy to get and socially accepted. Its numbing effects might seem to block traumatic memories and emotions. However, when the effects wear off, these feelings often return more strongly. Because alcohol is a depressant, it can worsen low moods and irritability, and heavy drinking may lead to risky behaviours, exposing a person to re-traumatisation.

Marijuana is increasingly used for relief from mental health conditions, including PTSD. The drug’s calming effects can amplify feelings of emotional detachment and avoidance, which are symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. While it may offer temporary relief, research shows that heavy marijuana use can also trigger paranoia and anxiety, making symptoms like hypervigilance and hyperarousal worse over time.

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PTSD and Addiction Diagnosis

When post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance addiction occur together, it is important to diagnose both. A careful assessment looks at how symptoms of PTSD might lead to drug or alcohol misuse, or how substance use changes the way PTSD shows itself. A full evaluation reveals their connection and opens the door for recovery.

Getting a correct diagnosis can be tricky because symptoms may overlap or hide one another. For example, avoiding certain places could be due to anxiety from PTSD or a person trying to avoid drug triggers. Expert professionals are essential for correctly spotting both conditions.

Treatment for PTSD and Substance Use Disorders

Treatment for PTSD and addiction typically involves therapy, medication or a combination of both. Support groups and peer counselling can also be very helpful. Rehab treatment plans can vary, shaped by a person’s needs and the severity of their symptoms.

Inpatient rehab can be particularly beneficial for this dual diagnosis. A residential setting provides a safe, structured environment removed from daily triggers. This dedicated space helps people focus fully on both their trauma and substance misuse recovery, offering stability and continuous support from professionals. Below are just some of the PTSD and addiction treatments you may find in private UK rehab facilities near you.

  • Peer and Group Support for PTSD and Addiction

    Peer and group support is very important for PTSD and addiction. Sharing experiences with others who understand your struggles helps reduce feelings of isolation and shame, which can be common with trauma. It provides a safe group setting where people can feel heard and supported.

    At our residential setting, we provide a safe space for group therapy sessions. Being with other people on a similar journey helps you build a community and feel less alone. This peer support is a powerful tool for addiction recovery and learning new ways to cope with PTSD challenges.

  • Medically Managed Detox for Patients With PTSD

    A medically managed detox may be essential for people facing PTSD alongside substance misuse. The detox is shaped to manage not only physical withdrawal but also emotional triggers. This specialised care helps a person find stability while considering how the detox process may bring back feelings of anxiety or distress.

    This careful support is very important. Medical staff watch for physical changes and mental distress, helping to reduce the impact of PTSD symptoms during withdrawal. Having constant oversight helps people feel secure, providing a stable start before they move on to deeper residential addiction treatment.

  • Trauma-informed Treatment for PTSD and Addiction

    At Castle Craig, our specialised care is led by experienced psychiatrists who are equipped to deal with trauma. We provide trauma-informed treatment for PTSD and addiction, understanding how difficult past events influence a person’s journey. Our method is built on a deep respect for a person’s experiences, providing a safe place to heal.

    Our skilled team works to help you safely address your trauma within our residential setting. This allows you to explore distressing memories in a controlled environment, which helps reduce triggers for substance misuse. We provide dedicated trauma and addiction therapy to help you move forward from both PTSD and substance dependency.

  • Long-term Rehab Treatment for PTSD and Addiction

    A longer period of residential rehab is often highly valuable for PTSD and addiction. It gives a person the time needed to work through deep-seated trauma, which cannot be done simply with a short detox. This length of treatment is crucial for reducing the risk of relapse linked to unresolved trauma.

    The extended stay allows for focused mental heath treatment, giving a person enough time to process past events and build new coping skills. Long-term rehab care helps avoid a return to substance misuse. It is through this dedicated and therapeutic journey that true stability can be found.

  • Confidential, Discreet PTSD and Addiction Treatment

    Confidential, discreet care for PTSD and addiction offers a private space for healing. Getting away from noise and triggers is very important. This peaceful environment helps people focus completely on their recovery journey, removed from outside pressures or scrutiny. It helps a person engage openly with support.

    At Castle Craig, we provide private and confidential addiction treatment for people managing PTSD. Our location is removed from city noise and familiar triggers. We believe that this peaceful setting helps you concentrate on your recovery, allowing you to address substance misuse without distraction. We support your healing journey with complete privacy.

  • Holistic Inpatient Treatment for PTSD and Substance Misuse

    Holistic inpatient treatment for PTSD and addiction helps people focus on their mind, body and spirit. It blends traditional talk therapies with practices that encourage a feeling of peace. Holistic therapies can include massage and animal-assisted interactions with horses, helping people feel calm and connected to the world.

    These methods offer a different kind of support for post-traumatic stress disorder. A person may find it easier to work through trauma-related anxiety and discomfort through physical release or quiet interaction with animals during rehab. These activities help ease emotional distress and support recovery from substance misuse.

  • Residential Rehab for Veterans with PTSD and Addiction

    At Castle Craig, we have deep respect for those who have served our country. Our residential rehab offers a quiet, beautiful location where veterans can focus on addiction treatment for PTSD and substance misuse. Our team provides caring support and understanding for the specific challenges faced by veterans.

    We are also proud to accept TRICARE insurance, supporting veterans in getting the addiction treatment they need. Our team offers dedicated support for trauma, combining medical care with empathetic guidance. We believe our setting in the Scottish Borders gives veterans a peaceful space to recover and find a new direction in life.

Therapies for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Addiction

Castle Craig is well-equipped to help people with co-occurring PTSD and addiction. Our treatment combines therapy and medical support to address the addiction and PTSD simultaneously. The goal of our support is to provide patients with the therapeutic tools they need to stay in recovery and lead a fulfilling life.

Our experienced and qualified therapists deliver highly skilled trauma therapy. People can also engage with holistic and experiential therapies to address past emotional pain. These can include outdoor activities and animal-assisted interactions like equine therapy to support mental and emotional health. Some of our comprehensive therapies for PTSD and substance misuse include:

  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): This helps people manage emotions and improve relationships, a core part of dual diagnosis care.
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This helps change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours linked to addiction and PTSD.
  • Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR): A specific trauma therapy that helps people process distressing memories.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engaging in nature-based activities that support mental clarity and emotional regulation during recovery.
  • Holistic Therapies: These are practices like acupuncture and mindful meditation that support physical and spiritual health.
  • Animal-Assisted Interactions: This involves working with animals like horses to help people develop trust and a sense of calm.
  • Therapeutic Art Group: Creative expression is used to help a person process emotions and memories in a safe setting.
  • Family Therapy: This involves working with family members to improve communication and strengthen support systems.
  • Group Therapy: People share experiences, gain support from peers, and learn together in a safe setting.
  • One-to-One Counselling: This provides a private space to explore personal feelings and challenges with a therapist.

  • Medication for PTSD and Substance Use Disorder

    • Antidepressants: Antidepressants can help alleviate the symptoms of depression and anxiety associated with PTSD. They may also help with sleep disturbances, common in individuals with PTSD.
    • Mood Stabilisers: Mood stabilisers may be prescribed to individuals with PTSD who experience mood swings or irritability.
    • Antipsychotics: Antipsychotics may be prescribed to individuals with PTSD who experience hallucinations or delusions.
    • Substance Misuse Medications: Medications like methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone can be used to treat addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

How to Get Help for Addiction and PTSD in the UK

To find help for addiction and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the UK, a brave first step is talking to your GP. They can guide you to local mental health services or addiction support. A professional assessment can help you understand your situation and available rehab treatment for PTSD and addiction near you.

For a structured environment away from daily triggers, inpatient rehab treatment is a strong option. Our residential rehab in the Scottish Borders offers a peaceful place to heal from substance misuse. To discuss finding support for your journey to sobriety, please call us on 01721 546 263.

Castle Craig Rehab UK

Contact Castle Craig PTSD and Addiction Rehab

If you or someone you know is struggling with co-occurring PTSD and addiction, it’s important to seek professional help. Castle Craig provides a comprehensive and highly personalised treatment approach. Located in the beautiful hills of the Scottish Borders, amid 50 acres of private woodland, Castle Craig is a compassionate sanctuary for recovery. Call us now and find genuine, caring support for you or someone you care about.

Call Now: 01721 546 263

PTSD-Related Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Castle Craig

At Castle Craig, we understand the deep emotional toll of living with both PTSD and addiction. Our expertise lies in helping people who have experienced trauma find a stable footing. We provide a safe, structured space where you can focus on substance misuse recovery while your emotional well-being is closely supported.

Our private residential rehab setting in the Scottish Borders offers a quiet environment to begin this healing. The constant presence of our skilled team helps create a sense of security, which is necessary for addressing post-traumatic stress disorder. This dedicated environment helps patients rebuild their sense of safety and learn to live free from drug or alcohol addiction.

Peer Support 

Sharing your story in a group setting can be a powerful part of recovery from PTSD and addiction. Being with others who have faced similar struggles helps reduce feelings of being alone. These groups provide a network of people who understand and support each other’s journey.

Continuing Care

Our aftercare is delivered over 24 weeks by CATCH Recovery, providing a safety net after residential addiction treatment. This continued support helps you navigate your return home and manage triggers. It helps maintain the stability you built in rehab and supports a lifelong journey of sobriety. 

Does Private Health Insurance Cover PTSD and Addiction Treatment in the UK?

Yes, private health insurance in the UK can support PTSD and addiction rehab. The possibility of cover rests on your specific plan’s details, benefit limits and any exclusions that might apply. Reviewing your policy information closely is always the first step to confirm what support is available.

If you receive authorisation for care with us, we welcome people with private medical insurance. We accept many major providers, including Bupa, Aviva, Cigna and TRICARE. To learn more about insurance-covered PTSD and drug or alcohol treatment in the UK, please contact us today for detailed information about our therapies.

PTSD and Addiction Co-Occurring Disorder Related Guides

Dual Diagnosis | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Teens | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Women | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Men | Luxury Dual Diagnosis Rehab

Mental Health and PTSD Treatment Related Guides

ADHD and addiction | Anxiety and addiction | Depression and addiction | OCD and addiction | Personality disorders and addiction | PTSD and addiction | Schizophrenia and addiction | Social anxiety and addiction | Eating disorders and addiction

Contact Castle Craig Private Residential Rehab Centre

Facing PTSD and addiction together can feel like a devastating weight on your shoulders, but recovery is absolutely possible. Taking a step to seek help is a moment of immense courage. It can be the start of a new chapter where you find freedom from substance misuse and begin to build a brighter future for yourself.

Our team is here to listen with deep understanding, offering guidance without judgment. We know that reaching out is not easy. Making a call can start a conversation that helps you explore your options and find the support you deserve. To begin your journey, please call us on 01721 546 263 or fill out the form below.

Confidential PTSD and Addiction Assessment

Compassionate, expertly delivered evidence-based practices and a patient-centred approach are at the heart of our treatment model. Request a call-back from one of our professionals on any day of the week.

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Frequently Asked Questions About PTSD and Addiction

  • Is Addiction Part of PTSD?

    Addiction is not a part of PTSD, but the two conditions are often closely related. PTSD can cause anxiety, depression and insomnia, which can lead individuals to seek coping mechanisms. Substance misuse may provide temporary relief but can also worsen the symptoms of PTSD, causing addiction. Individuals who have PTSD are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with a substance misuse disorder.

  • Is There a Link Between Trauma and Addiction?

    Yes, there is a link between trauma and addiction, although it is not straightforward and can vary from person to person. Trauma can alter the reward system in the brain, making it harder to feel pleasure from everyday activities. This can lead to a greater desire for substances that provide a stronger sense of pleasure, such as drugs or alcohol.

    Additionally, people with PTSD may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms, as the brain’s chemical balance is impacted following a traumatic experience, producing fewer endorphins.

  • What Kind of Trauma Leads to Addiction?

    Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can affect anyone who has experienced a violent, unexpected, or shocking event that is difficult to process. It can occur whether the trauma is experienced firsthand or witnessed from a distance.

    While there are no established standards for determining the leading cause of PTSD, the following types of traumatic experience are known to lead to PTSD in some people: accidents; natural disasters; violent crimes, sexual assault or rape; kidnapping or hostage situations; imprisonment; marital infidelity; traumatic childbirth; the death of a loved one; political or civil unrest, witnessing others being killed or hurt; bullying or harassment; military combat.