Substance Abuse, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Returning
OEF/OIF Veterans
Program Description
This one-day training will define the nature and relationships of Combat Trauma and
Substance Abuse. Most returning OEF/OIF war-fighters experience post-deployment
stressors and the majority copes well with the transition from combat back to the
noncombat environment. This training will explain and discuss the clinical features that
indicate ineffective and/or maladaptive coping for those returning with PTSD. Relevant
research on assessment, diagnosis, and effective treatment planning will be reviewed.
Program Objectives
Upon completion of this program, participants should be able to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Discuss the relationship between Trauma and Substance Abuse;
Identify the differences between “normal” post-deployment readjustment
issues and post-traumatic stress disorder in returning war-fighters;
Use case histories to discuss issues of differential diagnosis and effective
interventions;
Define knowledge and skills issues requiring additional study and/or training;
Implement these skills in their daily practice.
Target Audience
Mental health and substance abuse clinicians (social workers, psychologists, counselors,
and nurses etc.), other interested healthcare providers and anyone working with returning
veterans.
Agenda
Introductions and Overview
Trauma & Substance Abuse Defined
 Trauma & Poly-Trauma Among OEF/OIF Vets
Spectrum of Trauma-Related Issues
 Substance Abuse as a Maladaptive Coping Strategy Typologies of SA
Issues Pre & Post-Trauma Exposure
LUNCH
Defining the Continuum – Adjustment Disorders to PTSD
 Differential Diagnosis: Normal Post-Deployment of PTSD
 Case History Activity – Case #1, Case #2, Case #3
Wrap-Up/Evaluations
Credits
6.0 credits
Faculty
L. Worth Bolton, ACSW, LCAS, CCS, is a Clinical Assistant Professor at UNC-Chapel
Hill School of Social Work and coordinates the Certificate in Substance Abuse Studies
Program. Prior to coming to UNC in 1997, he worked in inpatient, outpatient, and
residential services for adults and adolescents. Mr. Bolton has provided consultation,
training, and technical assistance to human service agencies, the criminal justice system,
business and industry, and the military since 1982.