Is PTSD Treatment Effective for Police Officers?
For anyone who struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), recommended treatment involves a unique combination of traditional, alternative, and holistic therapies that are sensitive to the unique nature of the trauma experienced by the patient. For police officers, this is no less true. Like war veterans, police officers can be just as successful in recovery from PTSD as anyone else living with the disorder. The key is to find a treatment program that:
· Understands the nature of a police officer’s responsibility: In order to treat first responders’ trauma experienced on the job, providers must have the education and experience to know what exactly that looks like in day-to-day life. Trauma experienced by first responders is different in actuality and effect compared to natural disasters, abuse, and other forms of trauma. An effective PTSD treatment program will be staffed by professionals who are trained to work with first responders.
· Can effectively treat trauma-related disorders like PTSD: A range of therapies and treatments have been researched and found to be effective in the treatment of PTSD — therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) — and it is essential that any effective PTSD treatment plan include ready access to these therapies.
· Recognizes that substance use disorders and trauma are often deeply entwined: Disorders like PTSD and substance abuse or addiction often co-occur. Symptoms of PTSD may trigger cravings for drugs and alcohol, and drug and alcohol use can often worsen symptoms of PTSD. It is essential, for this reason, that both disorders be treated simultaneously.
· Offers support to loved ones: Family members and loved ones at home have an important role to play in the recovery of everyone in the household. They should be educated and supported in groups and family therapy along with the person seeking PTSD treatment.
· Provides aftercare assistance, including reintegration back into the workplace: Treatment is just the beginning of the journey into recovery from PTSD and/or substance use disorders. Transitioning back home and back on the job after treatment can take time, and during this process, it is important to remain actively engaged with recovery. An effective PTSD treatment program will provide long-term aftercare and support as well as reintegration assistance as needed.
Treatment Can Start Now
The moment you determine that it is time to make a change, recovery can begin. At American Addiction Centers, our First Responder Lifeline Program is available at multiple locations, offering police officers and other first responders the opportunity to jumpstart their ability to manage symptoms related to PTSD as well as substance use and abuse. Our location options currently include:
- Laguna Treatment Hospital in Aliso Viejo, California
- Greenhouse Treatment Center in Dallas, Texas
- Clinical Services of Rhode Island in Greenville/Portsmouth/South Kingstown, Rhode Island
- Sunrise House Treatment Center in Sussex County, New Jersey
- Desert Hope Treatment Center in Las Vegas, Nevada
- Recovery First in West Palm Beach/Hollywood, Florida
Which location is right for you? Contact us at (866) 53-SOBER today to speak to a treatment consultant who can assist you.
