One of the most common mental health conditions to occur alongside substance use disorder (SUD) is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although PTSD can be an isolating illness to live with, Exclusive Hawaii Rehab is here to help you overcome it. We offer comprehensive addiction and PTSD treatment in the stunning natural setting of Hawaii.

Understanding PTSD and Its Connection to Addiction

What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

PTSD is a mental health condition caused by experiencing one or a series of traumatic events. Traumatic events can be any experience that causes extreme stress or fear. Common examples of traumatic events that may lead to PTSD include:

  • Combat or war
  • Sexual abuse or assault
  • Physical or mental abuse
  • Witnessing violence
  • Natural disasters
  • The death of a loved one
  • Accidents, such as car crashes

These are just some types of experiences that may cause trauma, but there are many other events that could lead to the development of PTSD. Substance abuse and addiction can also be traumatizing, especially when coupled with childhood trauma surrounding substance use.

For people with PTSD, navigating life can be difficult. Many individuals struggle with intrusive memories of the traumatic event both during the daytime and at night in the form of intense nightmares. Sometimes, the memories can feel so real that the person may believe that the event is happening again. This is called a flashback. Over time, people with PTSD may create safe spaces in their homes where there are fewer triggers, and they may avoid leaving their homes to avoid triggers in the outside world. This can lead to isolation and feelings of depression. They may experience negative thoughts about themselves and the world. Feelings of anxiety, restlessness, or even anger are common.

How Trauma Influences Substance Use

The nature of trauma is that it stays with you and manifests in physical and cognitive symptoms. Sometimes, individuals will try to numb their emotions and avoid symptoms by using drugs and alcohol. For some, substances may provide a temporary escape, but the effects of trauma return once the substances wear off. At the same time, the more a person uses substances, the more they need to consume to produce the desired effects. This is often how an addiction is developed.

In other cases, substances can intensify feelings of anxiety, fear, sadness, or anger. People with PTSD may find that drugs and alcohol are triggers for intrusive memories and flashbacks. However, addiction may cause people to consume substances despite negative consequences, and so they may continue even though it worsens their mental health condition.

Common Signs of Co-Occurring PTSD and Addiction

When a mental health disorder and addiction occur at the same time, it’s known as a co-occurring disorder. Co-occurring disorders require a unique approach to diagnosis and treatment. Some symptoms of co-occurring addiction and PTSD include:

  • Experiencing worsened symptoms during or after substance use
  • Using substances to feel numb or lessen symptoms
  • Developing symptoms after starting to use substances
  • Using substances despite the effects on mental health
  • Craving substances when symptoms flare up

The Role of Comprehensive Trauma Therapy for PTSD Treatment

Comprehensive trauma therapy plays a vital role in addressing PTSD in cases of addiction. By targeting the root causes of trauma, it alleviates emotional pain that often fuels substance use, fostering a deeper, more sustainable recovery. Evidence-based PTSD counseling methods, such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), help individuals process and reframe traumatic experiences safely.

Integrating trauma therapy with substance abuse programs ensures holistic care, addressing both conditions simultaneously for better outcomes. Overcoming barriers to seeking help — like stigma or fear — through compassionate support empowers individuals to begin their healing journey, restoring hope and building resilience for a healthier, addiction-free future.

Specialized PTSD Treatment in Hawaii

Exclusive Hawaii Rehab’s specialized PTSD treatment combines holistic and evidence-based approaches to promote lasting healing. By setting realistic goals for recovery, clients gain clarity and confidence, ensuring progress feels achievable and empowering. The program emphasizes building coping skills, resilience, and self-compassion through therapies like EMDR, mindfulness, and trauma-informed counseling, helping clients navigate triggers and challenges effectively.

Holistic practices such as yoga, meditation, and nutrition support mind-body balance, enhancing overall well-being. To maintain progress after treatment, clients benefit from personalized aftercare plans and alumni support, ensuring they leave equipped to thrive and continue their journey of healing with confidence and stability.

Taking the First Step Toward Healing With PTSD Treatment

The first step toward your recovery journey will be a thorough consultation and assessment stage with our compassionate and knowledgeable staff. During this time, we’ll talk through your needs and goals and determine what level of care is right for you. For some, residential treatment is necessary to start the healing process.

If you are a former service member, our veteran’s treatment program is a great option. You can receive targeted support while connecting with other veterans who are experiencing the same things you are. We support every client from the moment you make the first phone call with personalized care plans and aftercare services.

You can take the first step towards healing today. Call Exclusive Hawaii Rehab at (808) 775-0200.