PTSD and Addiction Detox Support

PTSD and Addiction Detox Treatment | Co-occurring Recovery Support

According to the National Center for PTSD, more than 45% of people diagnosed with this condition also experience a substance use disorder. For this reason, a comprehensive treatment program that addresses both is an essential tool in long-term recovery and often begins with detox. 

Detoxification is the process of safely managing the acute withdrawal symptoms that can occur when stopping or reducing the use of addictive substances. A medically supervised detox is especially important when alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines and certain stimulant drugs are involved, as withdrawing from these substances can not only be uncomfortable but have the potential to be life-threatening. 

Detox for individuals with co-occurring PTSD and substance use disorder requires specialized, trauma-informed care. At Sunrise, we offer medical support to ease withdrawal symptoms while focusing on the underlying trauma that often drives substance use.

Our safe, compassionate care can help you build healthy coping strategies, recognize and manage your triggers, regain control and find stability. By addressing both addiction and trauma, we can help you build a foundation for long-term recovery.

Challenges of PTSD in Detox

Symptoms of PTSD can intensify withdrawal symptoms, making a medically supervised detox program a critical first step toward recovery.

PTSD and withdrawal have overlapping symptoms including anxiety, depression, restlessness, irritability, sleep disturbances and physical discomfort. These shared symptoms result from the way trauma and substance use impact the brain. 

Some people with PTSD turn to substances as a means of self-medication to ease their distress. While the use of alcohol or drugs may numb the feelings temporarily, this begins a cycle that can lead to addiction. 

Medically Supervised Detox Services

At Sunrise, we offer medically supervised detox services to support you through this important first step of recovery. Our program recognizes that withdrawal symptoms can feel scary and out of control, mirroring PTSD symptoms themselves.

We strive to provide care that offers structure, compassion and around-the-clock support to protect your physical and mental health in a safe and comfortable environment. 

Our experienced staff will closely monitor your vital signs, watch for worsening physical and mental health chenges and provide early intervention to ensure your comfort and safety. 

We utilize FDA-approved medications, when needed, to ease withdrawal symptoms, curb cravings and help to prevent relapse.

We also understand the importance of nutrition and rest as essential foundations of recovery. At Sunrise, we offer clean, fully furnished bedrooms and private baths as well as chef-prepared meals to create a calm and supportive environment where the body and mind can begin to heal. 

Trauma-Informed Support 

Although it is not required during detox, you can participate in individual or group therapy and peer support groups during your stay at Sunrise. Our staff is trained to provide you with trauma-informed support that addresses your PTSD and addiction.

We understand that treatment can feel overwhelming, so your daily schedule is built around your comfort and needs. Because PTSD affects how the brain processes stress, our approach focuses on safety, predictability and calm. 

Peer and Group Support

Struggling with PTSD and addiction can feel isolating. The peer and support groups at Sunrise offer a place where you can share experiences with others who understand what day-to-day life with these co-occurring conditions feels like.

These connections can help to regulate your nervous system through reassurance and encouragement that builds trust and connection. They also offer a place where you begin to develop healthy coping skills that take the place of substances to numb your distress.

We understand that healthy coping skills for managing cravings, anxiety and triggers are essential to long-term recovery. Our staff works closely with you to develop a relapse prevention plan that supports both trauma and sustained recovery. 

Aftercare and Next Steps

Detox is just the first step on your recovery journey; without ongoing support, you risk relapse.

Our staff will work closely with you to determine the next phase of your treatment plan and help connect you with a facility that provides the right level of care to meet your needs. Typically, your continued care will involve inpatient/residential or outpatient treatment.

Inpatient or residential treatment involves care away from home. This treatment approach is best for individuals who lack a strong support system, experience co-occurring disorders or are at high risk of relapse.

Outpatient treatment can include partial hospitalization (PHP), intensive outpatient (IOP) and traditional outpatient programs. They allow you to live at home but attend treatment daily, while offering flexibility so you can maintain family and work responsibilities. 

These programs generally last for several weeks or months and provide comprehensive support to help you build a foundation for recovery. Through individual and group therapy, you will learn how to recognize and manage your triggers, process your past traumas and develop healthy coping skills to manage your addiction and PTSD. 

Many programs also offer continued medication-assisted treatment to help you manage cravings, stabilize your mental health concerns and decrease your relapse risk.

Our staff will assist you with enrolling in a program that is right for you, answer any questions you may have about continued treatment and ensure that you have the support and resources you need for a smooth transition into the next phase of your recovery.

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