Breaking the Links Between Trauma, Addiction, and Alcoholism

Symptoms of stress and anxiety are often treated by “self-medication” instead of counseling or therapy. Past or present traumatic experiences are well-known to create long-term stress, anxiety, and other related wellness disorders. According to the National Institutes of Health, trauma from abuse and neglect is so prevalent it is considered “a major public health problem in the United States.”

Trauma can not only lead to susceptibility to mental health disorders, but also indirectly contribute to a higher risk of substance and alcohol abuse and addiction. In a way, it is like being victimized three times. First, by the original traumatic experience. Then from issues such as depression or PTSD. Finally, from co-occurring addiction problems which can significantly impact one’s health and further deteriorate one’s mental well-being. Though it is a clichéd expression to use, this is a perfect example of the downward spiral that people can easily get sucked into.

There’s a proven link between trauma and substance abuse.

Science backs it up. Per research by the National Survey of Adolescents, teenagers who had experienced substance use disorder (SUDs) challenges were three times as prone to reporting past physical or sexual abuse. That is not a coincidence. Indeed, many further studies have confirmed links to mental health problems and later misuse of alcohol and illicit drugs as a vain attempt to treat or subdue those issues. What ends up happening instead is that the SUDs only make matters worse and can increase symptoms, thus leading users to up their “dosage.”

The timing of events has also become a matter of much focus. Not everyone with SUDs experiences trauma beforehand. In some cases, the SUDs preceded and then directly contributed to a traumatic event. The relationship between the two problems is therefore flipped from the norm but exists nevertheless. One study on gender differences between those with SUDs and trauma exposure found that, for males, drug or alcohol abuse often precedes traumatic experience more than it does for females. This data may suggest that males put themselves in harm’s way while being high or intoxicated, engaging in risky or dangerous behavior that can often lead to seriously troubling outcomes.

However, there are no “one-size-fits-all” findings. A great deal of study has been done on military populations and veteran exposure to situations that led to PTSD and subsequent substance abuse problems. No matter which “came first,” the substance abuse or the trauma, the point is not to place blame on the user but to trace causes to find solutions to address them.

Just seeking help can be a struggle for some.

For some, the problems might seem so overwhelming that even seeking help is a struggle. Believing that recovery is possible and making the decision to check into a residential treatment facility is vital first step for anyone wanting to reclaim their life.

Gulf Breeze Recovery strives to offer the best and most comprehensive alcohol and substance abuse treatment options in the country, with plans of treatment tailored to fit your individual needs.  Our professional staff and medical team are available to meet all your needs for high-quality substance abuse treatment.

If you or someone you care about, has an ongoing history of alcohol or substance use and/or relapse, contact Gulf Breeze Recovery or call: 833.551.2356 to speak to an addiction expert to learn more about their residential program, out-patient program, and intensive out-patient program, and which of these can best fit your individual needs.  These programs have helped many people overcome their addiction and embrace their new happy, healthy, substance-free lifestyle.

We help people not just to survive, but to THRIVE!