PTSD and Alcoholism/Addiction

Paper Summary:

This study examines the link between post traumatic stress disorder and alcoholism/addiction. The author proposes a quantitative correlation analysis of the relationship between PTSD and alcoholism be conducted to identify the influence of trauma on subsequent alcohol abuse in patients varying in age from 13-70. A survey of the literature available on PTSD and alcohol/substance abuse on patients is conducted leading to a conclusion that a direct relationship does exist between post traumatic stress disorder and alcoholism. This conclusion coincides with a large body of evidence and prior studies which link the prevalence of traumatic disorders with alcohol and substance abuse as well as relapse from treatment programs.
Abstract
Narrative
Introduction
Background to the Problem
Statement of the Problem
Methods
Literature Review
Alcoholism and Post traumatic Stress Disorder: Overview
PTSD and Co-morbidity of Alcoholism: The Role of Trauma
Childhood Abuse and Gender Differences in PTSD
Association Between Alcoholism and Emotion
Genetic and Environmental Influences
Models of Assessment/Conclusions
References

From the Paper:

"Studies suggest that the use of alcohol or other drugs may provide patients dealing with trauma with a temporary distraction and relief from the thoughts, feelings and negative emotions associated with the event (ISTSS, 2003) and that substance abuse is generally chronic because the relief provided is only temporary in nature. Further there is evidence to suggest that alcohol abuse may be utilized as a means of self medication against traumatic memories and experiences (ISTSS, 2003; Thornton, 2003).
Given this information it is critical to examine whether or not a specific relationship exists between substance abuse and PTSD in order to identify treatment methods that are most likely to benefit patients demonstrating co morbid existence of PTSD and substance abuse problems. "

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