Post-traumatic stress disorder and alcoholism

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Psychiatric comorbidity is common among addicted patients. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a highly symptomatic anxiety disorder of acute onset after a major distressing life-event. OBJECTIVES: In clinical practice, patients suffering from drug addiction invariably report the occurrence of psychologically stressful episodes, with frequencies of PTSD ranging from 30% to 60%. Among patients suffering from alcohol dependence, the prevalence of PTSD is estimated to range between 10% and 40%. METHODS: We report the case of a 40-year old alcoholic man presenting with comorbid bipolar disorder and long-lasting symptoms of PTSD. The subject was an outpatient at the Institute for Prevention and Research on Alcohol and Other Addictions (Instituto de Prevenção e Pesquisa em Álcool e Outras Dependências - IPPAD), being assessed for the occurrence of PTSD with the aid of several psychometric instruments. RESULTS: Data derived from clinical sessions and research interviews include the Davidson Trauma Scale (DTS), which was administered at baseline and after one year of follow-up, yielding scores of 75 and 40 respectively. Global response to treatment was achieved after the recognition and appropriate treatment of the latter condition, along with the combined approach to other comorbid disorders. DISCUSSION: The investigation of traumatic events should be encouraged in the clinical management of alcoholic patients.