How Trauma Treatment Helps Counteract Suicidal Thoughts

There are a variety of ways to help counteract suicidal thoughts. However, one of the most successful is trauma treatment. Trauma treatment is one of the core programs offered at West Coast Recovery Centers.

Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

There are a variety of origins for people to develop suicidal thoughts and behaviors. In some ways, the ability to counteract suicidal thoughts depends on these core origins. Each individual will have their own, but it is important to know that programs have the ability to treat them all.

Brain Chemistry

One of the issues faced by many people with suicidal thoughts is issues with brain chemistry. This involves a chemical imbalance within the brain that occurs through no fault of the individual. They are simply born with a lack or abundance of certain chemicals, such as serotonin.

The good part about this type of cause is that it can be helped through medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This method provides chemical balance which, in turn, puts individuals in a better headspace to deal with any residual issues.

Trauma

The main issue that plagues people with suicidal thoughts is trauma. People dealing with trauma often find that they blame themselves or simply cannot deal with the fallout from their past.

There are three types of trauma:

• Acute trauma results from a single incident
• Chronic trauma is repeated and prolonged, such as domestic violence or abuse
• Complex trauma is exposure to varied and multiple traumatic events

The causes of trauma are varied and can include:

• Natural disasters
• Sexual/physical assault
• Witnessing violent crime
• Death of a loved one
• Prolonged hospitalization
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from military service

When trauma goes untreated, it can cause a number of different issues. These include not only suicidal thoughts but substance abuse, dissolving of familial bonds, and self-harm.

What Is Trauma Treatment?

When individuals become aware of their trauma, it shows they are ready for treatment. It may seem like a difficult concept, but for those willing to participate, it will create a place of healing they may never have believed possible.

Treatment programs often offer trauma treatment alongside substance abuse treatment, as the two are often linked. This type of treatment involves delving into one's past and confronting situations that are uncomfortable and upsetting.  

The difference between trying to access these issues on one's own and doing so in treatment is a matter of having support, being in a safe space, and knowing that when things feel at their worst, you are not alone.

Various Aspects of Programs to Counteract Suicidal Thoughts

There are a variety of aspects to the ways treatment programs go about treating trauma.

Utilizing a Case Manager

The concept of getting from the start of treatment to a healthier post-treatment life can be daunting. That is why clients are provided with a case manager. These are specialists who help clients understand the steps and milestones they need to reach to achieve their goals. Due to the fact that each person has their own unique story, it is important for case managers to handle every case on an individual basis.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

The goal of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is to help the client identify unhelpful thoughts that perpetuate the cycle of shame and self-criticism. By unearthing the roots of their trauma, a person can begin to look at how they feel about themselves and how to create a new narrative. This will allow them to realize that any trauma they have been through was not their fault and that they do not have to feel responsible. It also allows them to look at their situation through new eyes and realize that the thoughts they are having are misplaced.

Individual Therapy

Each client meets with an individual therapist as a way of creating a safe and available bond. This therapist will utilize an individualized treatment plan that incorporates the person's strengths and needs as well as goals for addressing mental health symptoms and increasing life fulfillment.

For clients, the idea of being able to speak openly about what they see as their own darkest thoughts can be liberating. Not only are they able to finally address their past trauma, but they can ask questions regarding their current situation, such as:

• Am I normal?
• Does everyone have these thoughts?
• Can you help me get better?

These are just a few questions that people may want to ask a therapist. The goal of a therapist is to provide a way for clients to expel harmful or self-deprecating thoughts that have formed in their minds. Suicidal thoughts often have a habit of sticking, and when people attempt to push them down rather than deal with them, they only get worse.  

West Coast Recovery Centers' Ability to Counteract Suicidal Thoughts

At West Coast Recovery Centers, the idea of trauma as the origin of issues is well known. That is why our staff is eager to utilize their knowledge to help clients address their suicidal thoughts.

The end result is a safe environment and a bridge to wellness. Clients can address a multitude of issues that may be contributing to these detrimental thoughts. West Coast Recovery Centers is prepared to offer a healthy environment where clients can feel free to be themselves and help counteract suicidal thoughts.

At West Coast Recovery Centers, we understand that people going through trauma often experience suicidal thoughts. That is why we offer trauma treatment. This treatment allows individuals to explore their issues in a safe and secure environment where they will get the help they need. A large part of exploring trauma is coming to terms with oneself and one's situation. In these cases, trained staff will explore any suicidal thoughts or even previous attempts to bring the client into a more secure and healthy mindset. Once they have begun exploring their trauma, it will become easier to deal with and thus remove the deeply destructive thoughts. For more information, call West Coast Recovery Centers at (760) 492-6509.