The lasting effects of trauma from childhood, surviving a disaster, or other trauma can cause some people to turn to substances. It can lead to a vicious cycle where they use drugs or alcohol, experience more trauma, and get deeper into addiction. We believe that trauma informed care is critical to break that cycle.
TRAUMA AND ADDICTION
If you struggle with addiction, it is possible that you have also experienced trauma at some point in your life. This could include childhood abuse, neglect, or even loss of a loved one. Identifying the root cause of addiction can be difficult and may require extensive therapy sessions. ARIA has psychologists and therapists who specialize in trauma therapy and will help to identify if you have an underlying mental health condition. Other signs that may indicate a mental health problem include severe depression or suicidal ideation.
WHAT IS TRAUMA -INFORMED CARE?
Trauma-informed care is an approach that is used for individuals who have experienced severe trauma. This could include physical abuse, sexual abuse, or emotional abuse. The method works to help individuals understand that trauma can cause serious mental health disorders. Trauma can also cause an individual to struggle with substance abuse because it numbs the pain that they are feeling. This approach helps to build a connection between patients and their counselors. Traumas that are often associated with addiction include parental abandonment, loss of a loved one, and being bullied.
WHAT KIND OF SUBSTANCE USE PROBLEMS CAN TRAUMA CAUSE?
People who suffer from some form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may abuse alcohol or drugs, including prescription medication. The longer that trauma remains untreated, the further an individual may fall into a substance use disorder. It can get to a point where the person experiences withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop using drugs or alcohol.
Other signs that there is a severe addiction issue to deal with include:
- Not having the ability to stop using drugs or alcohol
- Needing more of a specific substance to feel the same effect
- Abandoning activities that once meant a great deal
- Putting more focus on obtaining the drug than maintaining important relationships
People dealing with a combination of trauma and substance use disorder often have significant issues with their friends and family. They may put themselves in dangerous situations like drunk driving. Many end up in legal trouble after getting arrested for actions they commit while under the influence. Taking part in an individual therapy program for trauma can help individuals learn to cope with their issues without turning to drugs or alcohol.
THE LEVELS OF CARE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS
In the first responder addiction treatment program at ARIA, we offer a full spectrum of substance use treatment programs so that each client can be sure to get the tools they need for long-term recovery. These include:
- Medically supervised detox – Our medical team ensures that our clients are comfortable and safe as they go through withdrawal.
- Partial hospitalization program – In our PHP, first responders live at home but spend their days in treatment.
- Intensive outpatient program – In the IOP, first responders continue their treatment as they prepare to transition back into their jobs and lives drug-free.
- Outpatient treatment program – The outpatient treatment program is the most flexible of our first responder addiction treatment programs. In the outpatient treatment program, we continue to provide less intensive support around the client’s schedule.
People dealing with a combination of trauma and substance use disorder often have significant issues with their friends and family. They may put themselves in dangerous situations like drunk driving. Many end up in legal trouble after getting arrested for actions they commit while under the influence. Taking part in an individual therapy program for trauma can help individuals learn to cope with their issues without turning to drugs or alcohol.
HOW SUBSTANCE USE AFFECTS TRAUMA SYMPTOMS
People are sometimes diagnosed with acute stress disorder (ASD) after undergoing a traumatic incident. People with ASD may feel like the world around them isn’t real or disconnects from other people. They may also deal with constant intrusive images and thoughts from past events. When an ASD lasts longer than a month, that condition typically leads to a diagnosis of PTSD.
The allure of drugs and alcohol is that they seem to offer a reprieve from the sometimes debilitating effects of trauma on individuals. Many experience a numbing of emotion, start socially isolating, and experience feelings of anger and depression. Continued substance use as self-medication often leads to addiction issues that reduce a person’s ability to survive in the real world.
Many adults diagnosed with PTSD and a substance use disorder often have other underlying problems. Many who participate in a trauma-related treatment program for addiction often end up diagnosed with other issues, like:
- Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Personality disorder
A trauma-related substance abuse treatment program can help show individuals a better way of navigating the physical and psychological side effects of past trauma.
GETTING TREATMENT FOR TRAUMA AND ADDICTION
Fully addressing a substance use disorder typically requires professional care and treatment. Addiction Recovery Institute of America offers help to those seeking a trauma addiction program in FL. Taking part in a trauma-related addiction program gives people access to the type of care that helps them move away from substances as a way of dealing with their issues.
Those who come to us deep in the throes of a substance use program may benefit from one of our detox programs. From there, our doctors and specialists help draw up a trauma-related addiction program specific to their needs. They can choose to participate in any of the following services offered at our trauma addiction program in FL:
- Residential treatment program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Outpatient treatment program
- Drug addiction treatment program
- Alcohol addiction treatment program
PERSONALIZED TREATMENT PLAN
While you are in our care, we will sit down with you to discuss your treatment plan. We will ask you questions about your life and what is causing you to use drugs or alcohol. These details will allow us to tailor your treatment. We will also listen to your needs and recommend additional care that is available at ARIA.
At ARIA, we are not cookie cutter programs that fit every patient. We understand exactly how you are feeling and know you have specific goals for recovery. Our program is designed to make a difference in your life and set you on a path for lasting sobriety.
REACH OUT TO THE ADDICTION RECOVERY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA TODAY
If you’re ready to break the pattern of abusing substances to deal with the effects of trauma, contact the Addiction Recovery Institute of America.