Alumni Connections Newsletter 2023-06-22

PTSD Awareness Month

To our Alumni,

June is PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) awareness month, and we want to take this opportunity to focus on this very serious and often misunderstood condition. PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, and it is essential that we raise awareness so that those who are suffering can get the help they need.

At Gateway Foundation, we understand the impact that PTSD can have on individuals and their loved ones. Our alumni are not immune to the effects of trauma, and we want to do everything we can to support them on their recovery journey.

Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of certain places or situations, feeling on edge or irritable, and changes in mood or sleep patterns. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek professional help.

At Gateway Foundation, we provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals struggling with trauma and PTSD. Our experienced and compassionate staff are trained to work with patients dealing with a wide range of issues, and we use evidence-based treatments to help our patients begin to heal.

If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, we encourage you to reach out for help. We are here to support you in your recovery journey and are committed to helping you overcome your challenges.

Thank you for your continued support of Gateway Foundation, and we wish you all the best on your journey to recovery.

Shane Hassler
Program Director, Digital Services

Substance Use and Addiction for PTSD Awareness Month

A variety of traumatic events can lead to PTSD, and identifying the event that triggered symptoms is an important part of any effective treatment plan. This will also lead to a more thorough understanding of the trauma so future or worsening symptoms can be prevented or lessened with proper therapy or other treatment options. Because traumatic events have a lasting impact, people with PTSD often self-medicate to cope with their symptoms. Ultimately, this type of drug and alcohol use can lead to a substance use disorder.

How to Help Someone Who’s Experiencing PTSD

Dealing with PTSD can significantly impact an individual’s life. It can also affect the relationships they have with their loved ones, making it difficult for them to understand their behaviors or why they keep their distance. It is important to understand that individuals with PTSD may not always be in control of their actions due to their condition. They may feel unsafe or relive their traumatic experiences repeatedly, causing them to behave erratically. With the right support from family and friends, individuals with PTSD can regain control of their lives.

Dual Recovery From Trauma and Addiction

Individuals who have gone through a traumatic event often find it difficult to handle unpleasant feelings. Instead of dealing with these emotions in a healthy manner, they may turn to temporary solutions like alcohol or drugs. Although these quick fixes may provide temporary relief, they can have negative consequences in the long run. To achieve a healthy lifestyle, it is important for those affected by trauma to acknowledge its impact and be mindful of it. Those who already suffer from substance abuse disorders may experience a relapse or worsening of their condition due to the trauma.

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Individualized, evidence based treatment, to fit your needs.

Individualized, evidence based treatment, to fit your needs.

Individualized, evidence based treatment, to fit your needs.

Individualized, evidence based treatment, to fit your needs.

Individualized, evidence based treatment, to fit your needs.

Individualized, evidence based treatment, to fit your needs.

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