SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Course overview

Substance abuse, which encompasses the abuse of alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription medications, is closely associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The coexistence of a substance abuse disorder and PTSD can complicate both clinical presentation and treatment, and is associated with higher relapse rates, more medical and interpersonal problems, more severe illness, and poorer treatment outcomes. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of substance abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder, including use with special populations and the different types of measures used to assess pain level. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.