Trauma and Addiction
The Relationship Between Trauma And Addiction
Trauma is a powerful experience that can have a lasting impact on individuals and their relationships. It’s not surprising that trauma can also lead to addiction issues. If you are struggling with addiction and think you may also be dealing with trauma, it’s crucial to get help. If you are looking for treatment for addiction and trauma in Florida, ARC can help.
ARC is a top-rated drug and alcohol treatment center in Davie, Florida. Contact us today to learn more about our dual diagnosis treatment options.
trauma and addiction
What is Trauma?
Trauma is an experience that psychology defines as an overwhelming event that shatters a person’s sense of safety and well-being.
Causes of Trauma
A Traumatic event can be something physical, like a car accident or witnessing violence. It can also be something emotional, like the death of a loved one or experiencing abuse.
Regardless of the type of trauma someone experiences, it can have a lasting impact on their mental and physical health.
Signs and Symptoms of Trauma
The signs and symptoms of trauma can vary from person to person. Some common physical, emotional, social, behavioral, and psychological symptoms include:
Physical Signs of Trauma
- Unexplained injuries
- Chronic pain
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Stomach problems
Emotional Signs of Trauma
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Intrusive thoughts or memories
Social Signs of Trauma
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Loss of interest in activities
- Problems at work or school
- Isolation
Behavioral Signs of Trauma
- Self-destructive behaviors
- Risky behaviors
- Substance abuse
Psychological Signs of Trauma
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Dissociation
- Intrusive thoughts
the aftermath of trauma
What are the Effects of Trauma?
The effects of trauma can be both short-term and long-term.
Some people may experience symptoms immediately after the traumatic event, while others may not develop symptoms until months or even years later.
The effects of trauma can also vary in severity. Some common after-effects of trauma include:
Physical Effects of Trauma
- Headaches
- Chronic pain
- Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal problems
Emotional Effects of Trauma
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger
- Guilt
- Shame
- Emotional numbing
Behavioral Effects of Trauma
- Self-destructive behaviors
- Risky behaviors
- Substance abuse
- Eating disorders
- Sleep disorders
Cognitive Effects of Trauma
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Negative thoughts about self or world
Social Effects of Trauma
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Loss of interest in activities
- Problems at work or school
- Isolation
Psychological Effects of Trauma
- PTSD
- Dissociation
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Substance abuse disorders
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What is the Relationship Between Trauma and Addiction?
Many people who suffer from addiction also have a history of trauma.
Trauma Statistics
In fact, research has shown that there is a strong relationship between trauma and addiction.
One study found that almost 60% of those who sought treatment for substance abuse also had symptoms of PTSD.
Other research has shown that people who have experienced trauma are more likely to develop an addiction than those who have not experienced trauma.
There are several reasons why trauma can lead to addiction.
Numbing Effect
One reason is that people who have experienced trauma often turn to substances as a way to numb the pain and hurt they feel.
This is because substances can help to relieve the negative emotions associated with trauma temporarily.
Self-Medication
Another reason is that people who have experienced trauma often self-medicate in order to deal with the symptoms of PTSD.
This is because substances can help to reduce the symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts.
Coping Mechanism
Another reason is that people who have experienced trauma often turn to substances as a way to cope with the trauma they have experienced.
This is because substances can help to relieve the negative emotions associated with trauma temporarily.
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How are Trauma and Addiction Treated?
Several different types of treatment are available at a trauma rehab center in south Florida for people suffering from trauma and addiction.
Individual Therapy
One type of treatment is individual therapy. This is where a person meets with a therapist one-on-one to discuss their experiences and feelings.
Find out more about a specific type of individual therapy by reading our blog: What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Group Therapy
Another type of treatment is group therapy. This is where a person meets with a group of people who have also experienced trauma.
This can be a helpful way for people to share their experiences and learn from each other.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Another type of treatment is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
This type of therapy uses eye movements to help people process and heal from their experiences.
Medication
Another type of treatment is medication. Several different types of medication can be used to treat the symptoms of trauma and addiction.
Often, SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) are used to treat trauma-related issues.
Some of the most effective types of medications used are:
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Venlafaxine (Effexor)
Other medicines that may be prescribed are:
- Nefazodone (Serzone)
- Imipramine (Tofranil)
- Phenelzine (Nardil)
Overall, medications prescribed to treat trauma-related issues aim to rebalance the stress chemicals in the brain.
Support Group
Finally, speaking with others who have gone through traumatic experiences can help create a sense of community.
Attending support groups lets people feel connected with others which is helpful in the healing process.
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We aim to help everyone who contacts us. Whether our program makes sense for you or not, we will help you find the best treatment options that work best for your personal needs.
How to Find Trauma Treatment at a South Florida Rehab
Trauma Center
If you are looking for trauma treatment at a south Florida rehab center, there are several options available.
Treatment centers that specialize in trauma
Several treatment centers specialize in trauma. These centers have staff specifically trained to help people who have experienced trauma.
Treatment centers that offer EMDR
There are also several treatment centers that offer EMDR. These centers have staff who are specifically trained in EMDR.
Treatment centers that offer medication
There are also several treatment centers that offer medication, and these centers have staff who are specifically trained in prescribing medication.
trauma and addiction treatment in florida
Atlantic Recovery Center is a Trauma Treatment Center in South Florida
Atlantic Recovery Center is a south Florida trauma rehab center. We offer individual and group therapy, as well as dual diagnosis programs.
We also offer a unique alumni program. Our staff is specifically trained in trauma-informed care.
If you or someone you know is in need of help, please call us or visit our website to schedule a consultation and learn more about our available trauma and addiction programs.
