Why Is Trauma-Informed Treatment Important?

More often than not, those who struggle with addiction are using substances to self-medicate unresolved trauma. That is just one of many reasons why trauma-informed treatment is vital to the recovery journey. Unfortunately, not everyone understands the deeply rooted connection between addiction and trauma. However, understanding our past can help us better understand our struggles in the present, ultimately allowing us to create better futures for ourselves. 

West Coast Recovery Centers is built on the vision that all treatment must be transparent and individualized if we hope for our clients to achieve lasting, sustainable recovery. By providing trauma-informed treatment, our clients can truly confide in their care team so that they heal from the traumatic experiences they've gone through. Of course, the first step starts with you. Not only must you recognize and accept your struggle with addiction, but you must take that first step toward creating a life of recovery for yourself. Call or visit our website to learn more about us and our programs, and start your treatment journey today. 

What Is Trauma?

We all experience trauma in some way, shape, or form. The American Psychological Association (APA) describes trauma as emotional responses to extremely distressing events. That may include accidents, natural disasters, crimes, abuse (physical, mental, or emotional), and neglect. These distressing events may also consist of witnessing intense violence, death, or war, which is why many soldiers and veterans struggle with trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Unfortunately, no one can predict how they or a loved one will respond to distressing events. Individual trauma can cause physical, emotional, or life-threatening harm, ultimately leading to several adverse effects. However, sometimes how we respond to the trauma itself can make a significant difference. For example, ignoring trauma and letting it fester will only lead to further complications. Aside from the development of PTSD, those further complications may manifest as substance use issues or the development of additional mental health conditions. 

How Are Trauma, Addiction, and Mental Health Connected?

As mentioned, allowing our trauma to sit and fester can lead to addiction and mental health conditions. For that reason, many professionals may describe trauma as the root cause of addiction. The impact distressing events have on a person coupled with the inability to cope causes individuals to turn to drugs and alcohol to manage their symptoms. Of course, no good ever comes from self-medication. It does not treat that problem, and more often than not, it leads to dependency. 

In most cases, the best way to handle trauma is by: 

• Talking to others, whether it be friends and family or a mental health professional 
• Practicing healthy habits and taking care of yourself mentally and physically 
• Engaging in positive activities and hobbies that can help distract from the trauma 
• Turning to professional support if the trauma is leading to depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns
• Avoiding the use of alcohol and drugs to cope as using substances can quickly lead to substance use disorder (SUD) 

Is Trauma Always the Root of Addiction?

Of course, trauma is not always the only thing that contributes to the development of addiction. Rather, along with trauma, there are many contributing factors to addiction, such as:

• Family history and genetic predispositions 
• Social and societal influences 
• Pre-existing mental health conditions 
• Chronic and unmanaged stress
• Environmental factors and early exposure to substance use

What Is Trauma-Informed Treatment?

Even though trauma may not be the sole cause of addiction in every case, many can benefit from trauma-informed treatment. Trauma-informed treatment or care is simply a framework that focuses on promoting healing for individuals who have experienced trauma. It is implemented in many health settings and usually consists of: 

• Creating safe cultures and environments for people to explore trauma 
• Reducing stress surrounding the trauma or triggers and reminders of the trauma 
• Cultivating environments that are culturally sensitive to various clients 
• Using a trauma lens to guide how addiction treatment and services are implemented 
• Involving clients in the treatment process and actively engaging them in the decision-making to empower and restore autonomy

Treatment goals vary from one client to the next. In the case of trauma-informed treatment, we often focus on safety, peer support, empowerment, trust, and transparency. The hope is that by creating these safe environments, we can empower clients and restore the autonomy of their lives.  

Why Should You Consider Trauma-Informed Treatment Today?

Trauma-informed treatment can help you learn from your past and understand its influence on the present. When implemented correctly, it can help transform people and foster a sense of healing and growth for those seeking addiction treatment. Further, this treatment addresses the impact of trauma, allowing for a more holistic approach to care. Contact us at West Coast Recovery Centers to learn more about how trauma-informed treatment can help you achieve sustainable sobriety today. 

Trauma, addiction, and mental health are all deeply connected. Often, individuals struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) have developed the addiction because they've used drugs and alcohol to cope with the underlying impact of trauma. In these instances, people must heal from the trauma to recover from the addiction. Trauma-informed treatment can help people do that. Care like this creates safe environments where people can explore and heal from their traumas while working toward sustainable recovery. Further, it empowers clients to have control over their care, restoring autonomy over their lives and choices. For more information or to begin your treatment journey, contact West Coast Recovery Centers at (760) 492-6509 today.