Substance Abuse and PTSD

Although the link between PTSD and substance use disorders may seem obvious, there is more than one model of thought regarding why a relationship exists. Some theorize that people with PTSD attempt to rid themselves of their painful re-experiences, loneliness and panic attacks by abusing alcohol or other drugs as a form of self-medication.¹

After the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Manhattan, New York residents reported an increased use of tobacco, alcohol and marijuana.²⁵

• 3.3% of respondents reported starting tobacco use for the first time the week following the 9/11 attack. ²⁵
• 19.3% of respondents reported starting alcohol consumption for the first time the week following the 9/11 attack. ²⁵
• 2.5% of respondents reported starting marijuana usage for the first time the week following the 9/11 attack. ²⁵
• 41.2% of respondents reported an increase in tobacco usage following the 9/11 attack. ²⁵
• 41.7% of respondents reported an increase in alcohol consumption following the 9/11 attack. ²⁵

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