SHARED FORM THE US DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS
Studies show PTSD and substance use problems are strongly related in people who served in the military and in civilians. Some people try to cope with PTSD symptoms by drinking heavily, using drugs, or smoking too much. People who have problems with drugs or alcohol are also more likely to develop PTSD. The good news is that treatment works, and therapy can target both problems at the same time.
How Common Is Co-occurring PTSD and SUD in Veterans?
More than 2 of 10 Veterans with PTSD also have SUD.
Almost 1 out of every 3 Veterans seeking treatment for SUD also has PTSD.
The number of Veterans who smoke (nicotine) is almost double for those with PTSD (about 6 of 10) versus those without a PTSD diagnosis (3 of 10).
In the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, about 1 in 10 returning Veterans seen in VA have a problem with alcohol or other drugs.
War Veterans with PTSD and alcohol problems tend to binge drink. Binge drinking is when a person drinks a lot of alcohol (4-5 drinks or more) in a short period of time (1-2 hours).
UNDERSTANDING PTSD AND SUBSTANCE USE for Veterans, General Public, Family and Friends