While some people who’ve undergone trauma choose denial and avoidance as coping mechanisms, others may turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with the emotional pain, stress, or unresolved feelings stemming from traumatic experiences.
Known as trauma-related addiction, this form of addiction doesn’t discriminate – it can affect anyone regardless of age, background, or profession. People struggling with unprocessed trauma often find themselves in a cycle of substance use as a way to numb or escape difficult emotions.
At Impact Outpatient Program, we understand the deep connection between trauma and addiction and offer a trauma treatment program to address both issues simultaneously. Recognizing the signs of trauma-related addiction is crucial to seeking appropriate addiction treatment and reclaiming a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Signs of Trauma-Related Addiction
Identifying trauma-related addiction can be challenging, as symptoms often overlap with other mental health or addiction issues. Here are key signs to look for:
- Persistent substance use to manage emotions – Individuals may use drugs or alcohol to escape feelings of sadness, anxiety, or fear linked to past trauma.
- Physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms – Those with trauma-related addiction may experience cravings, irritability, mood swings, or physical discomfort when not using substances.
- Co-occurring mental health issues – Individuals with trauma-related addiction may display symptoms of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Avoidance of memories or triggers – They may avoid people, places, or situations that bring up memories of the traumatic event, often accompanied by increased substance use.
- Emotional numbness – Individuals may feel detached or unable to connect with others, leading to reliance on substances to feel “normal.”
- Risky behaviors – They may engage in dangerous activities while under the influence e.g. driving or risky sexual activities to obtain substances.
- Ignoring responsibilities or declining performance – Those affected may struggle to meet their obligations at home, school, or work and perform poorly or they may ignore these responsibilities altogether.
How to Seek Help
Addressing trauma-related addiction requires comprehensive treatment that tackles both the trauma as well as the substance use. As a leading treatment center in Louisville, we provide evidence-based trauma therapy and addiction treatment programs designed to meet each individual’s unique needs. The key steps to seeking help include:
- Engaging in trauma-focused therapy: This involves approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that help individuals process and heal unresolved trauma.
- Considering addiction treatment: Enroll in programs that combine trauma therapy with addiction rehab to ensure both root causes and symptoms are addressed.
- Building a support network: Joining support groups or confiding in trusted friends and family can provide emotional backing during recovery.
- Adopting healthy coping strategies: Learning mindfulness, practicing self-care, and engaging in physical activity can help reduce reliance on substances.
Ready to Transform Your Life?
Trauma and trauma-related addiction don’t have to define your life. At Impact Outpatient Program, we provide compassionate, expert care tailored to your healing journey. Our integrated addiction treatment programs in Louisville combine trauma therapy, addiction treatment, and innovative options like telemedicine to offer accessible and effective solutions. Contact us today to find out more about our admissions process and take the first step toward rebuilding a more productive and fulfilling life.