Trauma and Substance Abuse | Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one are seeking addiction treatment, understanding the relationship between trauma and substance abuse is crucial. Coping with trauma can lead to addiction, and the same is true the other way around. In either case, the two are often intertwined and must be addressed simultaneously for successful recovery. Contact Washburn House online or call 855.298.3104 to learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment program and how we can help you or your loved one on the path to recovery.

What to Know About Trauma and Substance Abuse

Trauma and substance abuse are often deeply intertwined. Research shows that individuals who experience trauma are significantly more likely to develop substance abuse disorders. Research also indicates that approximately 60% of adolescents enrolled in community-based substance use disorder treatment programs also meet the diagnostic criteria for an additional mental health condition.¹ This statistic echoes the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which showed that adults struggling with mental health conditions were more likely than those without mental health issues to be past users of illicit drugs or alcohol.² The phenomenon is known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders.

What Is the Connection Between Trauma and Addiction?

Trauma can lead to substance abuse. Consider the following factors:

Coping mechanism – Many people turn to drugs or alcohol to numb the pain and distress caused by traumatic events.
Self-medication – Substances can temporarily alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), creating a dangerous cycle of dependence.
Social isolation – Trauma can lead to feelings of isolation, which substances might seem to alleviate, albeit temporarily.

The connection between trauma and addiction is complex and often deeply personal. For some, substance abuse may be a direct result of trauma experienced in adulthood or childhood. Others may have a preexisting mental health condition that makes them more vulnerable to developing an addiction following a traumatic event. In either case, the association between trauma and addiction must be addressed simultaneously for successful recovery.

What Is the Link Between PTSD and Substance Abuse?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Individuals with PTSD often experience intense and disturbing thoughts and feelings related to the event, as well as avoidance behaviors and hyperarousal symptoms such as difficulty sleeping and concentrating. These symptoms can make it challenging to function in daily life, leading some individuals to turn to substances for relief.

While substance abuse can lead to developing trauma-related problems, research also shows that individuals with PTSD are more likely to develop substance use disorders than those without trauma. The comorbidity of these two conditions highlights the importance of addressing both in treatment.

Do You Treat Addiction or Trauma First?

Effective treatment for co-occurring disorders requires addressing both trauma and addiction simultaneously. However, the first step in recovery may vary depending on individual needs. For some, it may be necessary to stabilize any immediate substance use before delving into trauma-related issues fully. In contrast, others may need to address past traumas before addressing their addiction.

How Do You Heal from Trauma and Addiction?

At Washburn House, our dual diagnosis treatment program takes a holistic approach to treating co-occurring disorders. Our experienced team of professionals specializes in providing evidence-based therapy for both substance abuse and trauma. By addressing the root causes of addiction, we can help individuals achieve lasting recovery. Contact us at 855.298.3104 to learn more.

Tips for Coping with Trauma

Coping with trauma is a vital step toward breaking the cycle of substance abuse. Here are some practical tips that can help:

Practice mindfulness – Techniques such as meditation and deep-breathing exercises can reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.
Engage in physical activity – Exercise releases endorphins, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Join support groups – Sharing experiences with others who have faced similar challenges can be incredibly therapeutic.
Maintain a routine – Establishing a daily routine can provide structure and a sense of normalcy, which is often disrupted by trauma.
Seek professional help – Therapy can offer a safe space to process traumatic experiences.

Understanding the link between trauma and substance abuse is the first step toward effective treatment.

How a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program Can Help

A dual diagnosis treatment program is specifically designed to address both substance abuse and other mental health conditions simultaneously. At Washburn House, we offer a holistic approach to treatment, considering the intricate link between trauma and substance abuse. Here’s why our program stands out:

Comprehensive care – Our program includes individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and trauma-informed care.
Expert curation – Our team of experienced professionals tailors treatment plans to meet each client’s unique needs.
Supportive environment – We provide a safe and nurturing environment where clients can heal without judgment.

The program features a variety of services designed to support individuals on their recovery journey. It begins with medical detox to ensure a safe withdrawal from substances. Following this, inpatient residential rehab provides 24/7 support and structured care. For those seeking a step-down level of care, a partial hospitalization program (PHP) offers intensive support while allowing for some flexibility. Alternatively, the intensive outpatient program (IOP) caters to individuals who need comprehensive care but cannot commit to inpatient treatment. To further aid in maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse, aftercare programs are available, along with alumni programs that foster long-term connections and community support.

Connect with Washburn House and Start on Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Worcester, MA

Washburn House is committed to providing compassionate care that addresses both issues through our dual diagnosis treatment program. We aim to help our clients achieve lasting recovery by integrating tailored therapies and supportive services.

Are you ready to begin your healing journey? Contact our team online or call 855.298.3104 today to explore how our programs can support you or your loved one in overcoming addiction and trauma.

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