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Connection between trauma and substance use disorder

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Medical Reviewer

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

What is Trauma?

A traumatic event can be a source of intense emotional stress and can negatively affect one’s psychological well-being. Trauma can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, neglect, natural disasters, and violence. Trauma can also occur as a result of experiencing a traumatic event, such as a car accident or the death of a loved one.

Trauma-informed care is becoming increasingly important in treating individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). Understanding the connection between trauma and substance use disorder is essential, as many individuals who struggle with addiction also have a history of trauma. Research has shown that individuals with drug addiction and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) are more likely to experience adverse outcomes in their recovery journey.

What are the Characteristics of Someone Suffering from Trauma?

Individuals who have experienced trauma may have a wide range of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, nightmares, and flashbacks. 

They may also have difficulty trusting others, feel detached from their emotions, and struggle to control their thoughts and behavior. Some may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and muscle tension. They may avoid certain places, people, or situations that remind them of their trauma. They may also struggle with memory and concentration. 

Trauma can cause individuals to engage in self-destructive behavior, such as substance abuse or risky sexual behavior. They may even develop a condition like PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Trauma can also harm an individual’s relationships, making it challenging to maintain healthy connections with others.

Understanding Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Substance use disorder is a term used to describe a pattern of substance abuse that leads to significant impairment in an individual’s daily life. SUD can manifest in various ways, from alcohol abuse to opioid addiction. The compulsive use of a substance characterizes it despite the negative consequences it may cause to the person’s physical, mental and social well-being. It can also be defined as a problematic substance use pattern leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.

How is SUD Diagnosed?

SUD is diagnosed through a combination of a clinical assessment and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria. A mental health professional will conduct an evaluation and ask about a person’s substance use history. This includes the frequency and amount of use and any negative consequences resulting from substance use. 

Generally speaking, the clinician will be looking to verify that two or more of the following criteria have occurred within a rolling 12-month period:

  • Taking a substance in more significant amounts or for more extended periods than intended
  • Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or quit substance use
  • Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of the substance
  • Persistent cravings or strong desire to use the substance
  • Neglecting important responsibilities at work, school, or home due to substance use
  • Continuing to use a substance despite negative social or interpersonal consequences
  • Giving up or reducing important activities because of substance use
  • Using a substance in hazardous situations
  • Continuing to use a substance despite physical or psychological problems caused or worsened by the substance use

How is SUD Developed?

The development of SUD is complex and can be influenced by various factors.

Genetics: Research has shown that individuals with a family history of substance abuse are more likely to develop SUD. This may be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Environment: An individual’s environment plays a significant role in the development of SUD. Growing up in an environment where substance abuse is prevalent or experiencing traumatic events can increase the likelihood of developing SUD.

Mental Health: Individuals with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD are more likely to develop SUD. They may turn to substances to cope with their mental health symptoms. This is also known as co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis.

Trauma Histories: As discussed earlier, individuals with trauma histories are more likely to develop SUD. Trauma can lead to negative consequences, including drug-seeking behavior, which can lead to the development of SUD.

It’s important to note that multiple factors can influence SUD development and it’s not only limited to the ones mentioned above. However, they are also some of the most commonly found in research. Each individual’s experience with SUD is unique. A comprehensive assessment is needed to understand their specific case’s underlying causes and contributing factors.

The Role of Trauma in the Development of Substance Use Disorder

Trauma is a significant risk factor for the development of SUD. People who have experienced traumatic events, such as physical or sexual abuse, may turn to substance abuse to cope with the emotional pain and trauma associated with their experiences. 

Trauma can lead to negative consequences, including drug-seeking behavior, which can lead to the development of SUD. It’s important to address the underlying trauma and provide trauma-informed care to treat SUD effectively.

Finding Help for Trauma and SUD

At Agape Treatment Center, we understand the connection between trauma and SUD. We offer trauma-informed care as part of our effective treatment program. Our dedicated team of experienced and caring addiction counselors assists individuals with trauma to overcome their addiction and heal from their past experiences.

Understanding the connection between trauma and substance use disorder is crucial in providing effective treatment for individuals struggling with addiction. Trauma-informed care can make a significant difference in the recovery process. 

Agape Treatment Center offers this approach as part of its comprehensive program. Suppose you or a loved one is struggling with trauma and SUD. In that case, we encourage you to reach out to Agape today. It can help to speak with an addiction expert and start your journey to recovery.

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The goal of the content provided by Agape Behavioral Health is to provide readers with the most accurate and up-to-date information in mental and behavioral healthcare. Our medical reviewers specialize in mental health and addiction medicine and are committed to helping our readers make informed decisions about their health. We adhere to strict accuracy standards and source information exclusively from credible sources.

Agape Admissions Process

Asking for help with your addiction can be difficult. The guilt and shame some individuals feel as a result of substance abuse can be a barrier to receiving treatment. Our admissions specialists understand the struggles and difficulties that come along with active addiction. We’ve created an admissions process is as hassle-free and comfortable as possible. With our experience and guidance, we can assist you every step of the way with absolute compassion and unmatched respect.

Agape Insurance for Treatment

At Agape Behavioral Center, we believe that every individual should be able to afford the treatment they need. That’s why we accept various forms of health insurance at our treatment center. In fact, under certain health insurance plans, you could receive coverage for up to 100% of the cost of your addiction treatment program here at Agape Behavioral. To discover how much coverage for mental health treatment that your individual health insurance plan can provide you with here at Agape Behavioral Center, fill out an insurance verification form below.

Find the Support You Need with Agape Behavioral Center

At Agape Behavioral Center, we have a team of dedicated addiction specialists and trained professionals ready to support you or your loved one on the path to recovery.

Get help for your addiction today with a no-cost assessment. We provide personalized services to those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, mental health disorders, and co-occurring disorders. Located in the beautiful South Florida Fort Lauderdale area, our compassionate team is available 24/7 to provide guidance and advice.

Take the step towards recovery: Reach Out to Our Team Today!

Sahil Talwar, PA-C, MBA

Sahil Talwar is a physician assistant with over 7 years of experience in emergency, inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. He is licensed in both South Carolina and North Carolina. He graduated from South College with his Master’s in Physician Assistant studies in 2015. Sahil has utilized his experience by treating patients in both civilian and military settings. He is a Captain in the Army Reserves and has 15 years of military service. He is the owner of Carolina Psychiatry and Addiction Services.

Sahil specializes in medication assisted treatment. His focus is on helping people who suffer from multiple issues, such as schizophrenia, mood disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD.

Sahil enjoys taking time and listening to better understand what his patients are experiencing. He believes that empathy, respect and trust are integral traits that all providers must possess. He believes in the value of hard work and dedication to overcoming mental illness and will help his patients to achieve their mental health goals.