PTSD and Co-occurring Disorders

A large-scale study of PTSD by the military found that 88% of males and 79% of females also met criteria for another co-occurring disorder. The types of disorders differed based on gender. For example,

• Males: alcohol dependence or abuse (51.9%); major depressive episodes (47.9%); conduct disorders (43.3%); drug abuse and dependence (34.5%)

• Females: major depressive disorders (48.5%); simple phobias (29.0%); social phobias (28.4%); alcohol abuse (27.9%)

Many don’t realize that there are co-occurring disorders. Sometimes the individuals are treated for symptoms (e.g., chest pain, dizziness, body-part discomfort, immune system problems, GI complaints, headaches) without anyone realizing that the symptoms likely stem from the PTSD.

http://www.military.com/benefits/veterans-health-care/ptsd-frequently-asked-questions.html?comp=7000022779105&rank=4