Final answer:
Jake's frequent drinking after coming home from the Iraq war with PTSD is likely an attempt to self-medicate due to the psychological trauma he experienced. Alcohol can temporarily relieve anxiety and distress but may lead to tolerance and dependence, complicating PTSD treatment and overall health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Jake, a veteran with PTSD, has started drinking frequently, which can be related to an attempt to self-medicate and mitigate his symptoms. There is no direct mention of benzodiazepine activity related to Jake's increased drinking. However, it is known that alcohol affects several neurotransmitter systems, including GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which is the same system affected by benzodiazepines. The chronic use of alcohol leads to changes in these neurotransmitter systems, and when alcohol consumption is stopped, withdrawal symptoms can occur due to the imbalance caused by these adaptations.
In Jake's case, his PTSD, characterized by flashbacks, isolation, and severe psychological trauma, may push him towards alcohol use as a coping mechanism. Alcohol initially induces relaxation and reduction of anxiety, which can provide temporary relief from the distressing symptoms of PTSD. However, over time, this can lead to the development of alcohol tolerance and dependence, which further complicates his healthcare management and can contribute to additional health issues.
The response to traumatic events, as seen in PTSD, can cause various neurological changes, including those in the hippocampus and frontal cortex, impacting memory, stress response, and emotional regulation. Therefore, while the question specifically refers to naturally occurring benzodiazepine activity, it is more precise to discuss the alcohol impact on neurotransmitter systems that might be sought as a form of self-medication by individuals with PTSD.