Alcohol Use Disorders and Comorbid Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in US Military Veterans: Etiology and Current Treatment Approaches

Abstract

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is commonly observed in the US military, particularly among those exposed to combat. PTSD has been shown to be highly comorbid with substance use disorders (SUDs), particularly alcohol use disorders (AUDs). Research has been conducted to better understand not only why these disorders commonly co-occur but also how best to treat those who present with these dual diagnoses. The current chapter reviews the literature on the potential mechanisms that have been proposed to account for the high rates of comorbidity between PTSD and SUDs with a focus on AUDs and considers both psychological and biological perspectives. This chapter also examines psychotherapeutic approaches to treating these disorders, including those treatments developed specifically for those with comorbid PTSD and SUDs. In addition, pharmacological interventions are discussed, including those typically used to treat either PTSD or alcohol dependence (AD) alone. Recommendations for future directions are discussed throughout.