Cbt emdr ptsd and addiction

CBT, EMDR, PTSD and Addiction

The link between traumatic events and people turning to alcohol and drugs as a coping mechanism is one that has always been strong. Studies have indicated that those that suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are far more likely to be classified as alcoholics at one point in their lives. For those that have instances of PTSD in their lives, their addiction – and the means in which they can take the path that ultimately leads to the recovery from addiction – is something that is attached to healing something that has deeper roots. As such, it is imperative that the foundation of the path that must be taken to ultimately claim recovery be set in helping to recover from the root of the PTSD. And one of the ways that has gained steam in doing so in recent years is the practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) andEye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). But are these approaches appropriate?

A Look at CBT and EMDR CBT is the process in which a person is gradually surrounded by increasing levels of situations or stimuli that could cause them anxiety or emotional discomfort. EMDR, on the other hand, is a process that is used to cause a disruption between the mind and associated stimuli that triggers unpleasant memories. These are the kind of stimuli that can perpetually fuel instances of PTSD, thus creating a vicious cycle that includes alcoholism.

In the case of both CBT and EMDR, the treatments are used to treat addictions at an area that could have triggered the genesis of the addiction in the first place. The rationale behind both therapies is to provide the recovering addict with a better coping mechanism to deal with their PTSD other than turning to alcohol or drugs. Ultimately, the addict will be in a situation where he or she can positively manage situations in a healthy manner.

Because CBT and EMDR both provide recovering addict with extra tools that they can use to deal with their PTSD – and by extension their addiction – both therapeutic methods are appropriate ways to approach a person’s recovery from addiction. If anything, the treatments provide a comprehensive means to stay firmly on the road to recovery on multiple facets.

Not By Therapy Alone Even though CBT and EMDR are effective and appropriate ways to provide treatment for addiction, it should be noted that they are not instant cure-alls to the addiction problem. While an instance of PTSD could be the impetus that spurs the formation of an addiction, learning how to cope with handling the PTSD does not eradicate the elements that make addiction to drugs and alcohol such a dangerous force. Being addicted to drugs or alcohol is still a constant battle; one that is fought by adhering to the basic sentiment of “one day at a time.”

With that being said, the hope that is one of the main tenants of recovery is still very much in play. While addiction to drugs and alcohol is incurable, it is still treatable, to the point where a recovery from the disease is still possible. And this road to recovery is built by the same 12-step methodologies that make the concept of living one day at a time work. There’s still a spiritual awakening involved. There’s still an acknowledgement of a higher power. There’s still the reconciliation involved with knowing that there is a close connection with this power – something that is more powerful than the person. These vital steps are crucial to allow addicts to reset their minds and stay focus on the task of recovery; a task that must be achieved on a daily basis. And while therapies like CBT and EMDR can help make this path a little firmer to stand

on, their presence does not change the fact this path needs be traversed, and it can only be done with gentle, loving steps.