We have long recognized the role of trauma in addiction. Though trauma is complex, affects people in numerous ways, and can be difficult to diagnose, it is a very common underlying or co-occurring symptom of addiction. Trauma therapy programs are important as part of any addiction treatment.
At TruHealing Centers, our trauma therapy program is one of the fundamental pillars of our addiction treatment programs. If you are worried about your own history of trauma and how it may be affecting your substance use, please reach out today. We can answer your questions and provide you with important information about how you can receive help. Call [Direct] or use our online form to contact our supportive and compassionate staff members and to begin addiction therapy programs through our center.
Types of Trauma
Types of trauma are experienced due to numerous factors, many of which are all too common. There are types of trauma humans experience every day, such as:
- Bullying
- Natural disasters
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Traumatic grief
- Childhood neglect
Clusters of traumatic events can lead to what is called complex trauma. Complex trauma often begins in childhood and has wide-ranging, long-term effects.
Trauma makes it difficult or impossible to:
- Develop a sense of identity or self-awareness
- Form healthy attachments
- Feel secure or safe
- Grow intellectually, socially, psychologically, and emotionally
- Build healthy boundaries
In addition, people who have experienced trauma often develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety disorders, and addiction.
Signs of Trauma
The complexity of trauma’s effect on both mind and body cannot be overstated. The range of concerning symptoms is extensive and includes:
- Withdrawal and isolation
- Feelings of helplessness
- Fearfulness and a constant state of fight or flight
- Outbursts of aggression and rage
- Panic attacks
- Guilt and shame
Trauma and Addiction
Traumatic experiences directly affect the brain, which is a highly adaptive organ whose primary focus is survival. When survival is or seems threatened by traumatic experiences, the brain adapts however it needs to. Our brains can rewire themselves to protect us—for example, they may erase whole swathes of memory or completely shut down when faced with certain triggers.
When the brain is frequently or constantly flooded with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline during a traumatic experience – and remember, some people live in states of ongoing and unrelenting trauma – its chemistry changes, often permanently. Thus brain development among children and adolescents is delayed or impeded, and brain effects can result in adults. These factors can lead to long-term mental health consequences.
Self-medication to mute the symptoms of PTSD and other trauma-induced disorders is a common cause of addiction among trauma victims.
The Importance of a Trauma Therapy Program for PTSD and Addiction
If you are struggling with PTSD and addiction, a program specifically designed to diagnose and treat you is your safest and best option. Dual diagnosis treatment in a program that offers evidence-based care provided by experienced and trained professionals is available in many states through the TruHealing Centers.
The goals of trauma treatment are to:
- Help you face your past traumatic experiences
- Enhance your ability to function in the day-to-day
- Regain control of your life
- Raise awareness of inter-generational trauma
- Shift your focus from past events to the here and now
Address Trauma and Addiction Issues at TruHealing Centers
At TruHealing Centers, we are here to help you reach health and wellness, start your recovery journey, return to your life with new coping skills and a sense of optimism, and manifest the best outcomes for yourself and your loved ones on a foundation of healing and support. We will be here when you are ready to reach out. Call [Direct] or use our online form today for more information.