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Stress linked to drug addiction
WELLNESS
PANORAMA Thursday, October 10, 2002
Recently released studies done in the aftermath of Sept. 11 reported that post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increased the risk of substance abuse and addiction.
Dr. Michael S. Levy, founder and medical director of The Center for Addiction Medicine in Las Vegas, said the recent findings may explain the increase in substance abuse and addictive disorders since the terrorist attacks.
“The emotional impact of the terrorist attacks, the anthrax scare and the uncertainty following the frightening events subjected Americans to a great deal of stress,” said Levy.
“As a result, many more people became vulnerable to substance abuse and addiction relapse.”
Levy said recent research projects, funded in part by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, showed a direct link between stress and drug and alcohol abuse.
Incidents of PTSD and depression increased significantly following Sept. 11, leading to an increase in drug and alcohol use initiation, continuation and relapse.
The studies reported the increased risk for substance abuse arose as a result of the body’s natural response to stress.
Normal stress responses involve brain neurotransmitters and hormones that allow the body to protect itself from emotional pressure or physical pain in dangerous situations.
In some cases, the physiological effects of stress can linger, lasting long after the stressful event has passed.
“Some people are better able to cope with the physical and psychological demands brought about by stressful incidents,” said Levy.
“However, some people experience prolonged effects that disrupt their ability to function on a day-to-day basis. These individuals are especially vulnerable to drug and alcohol abuse to cope with unpleasant emotions.”
He said alcohol and drugs become a form of self-medication for the lasting effects of prolonged or chronic stress responses. These people may turn to drugs or alcohol to “treat” the symptoms of PTSD, which may include trouble sleeping, avoidance, emotional numbness, and increased aggression and anxiety.
Levy said the importance of the post-Sept. 11 studies lies in the realization of the causal relationship between stress and substance abuse. For thousands of Americans, stress responses can be triggered by small problems, like troubled relationships or heavy traffic, causing them to turn to alcohol or drugs.
“Life is filled with little things that provoke the body’s stress system,” said Levy.
“With the information provided by this recent research, we have a better understanding of the effects of stress on drug and alcohol abuse and will be better prepared to treat these patients.”