Addiction Treatment For Trauma

Many people entering addiction treatment are either aware that they have underlying co-disorders or they will be diagnosed with other disorders within their treatment program. Some examples of additional disorders are mental conditions such as: depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder and even a larger collection of issues resulting from trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

According to Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide, 6 out of 10 people addicted to illicit substances also have other mental illnesses. This is the case across multiple forms of addiction, from smoking and alcoholism to drug use.

Although it sounds counter-intuitive, many people who have suffered trauma turn to alcohol or drugs in an effort to regain control over their lives. This trauma can take many forms. Some people experience trauma during combat, childhood abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, criminal victimization or even rape.

Sexual abuse and rape are frequent causes of drug and alcohol abuse in women. Men are more likely to suffer trauma and enter addiction following war-time combat. In fact, in Vietnam veterans a co-diagnosis of trauma and addiction existed in between 60 and 80 percent of those seeking addiction treatment.

When trauma exists in someone seeking recovery from addiction, both or all disorders must be treated simultaneously. By integrating addiction treatment with treatment for trauma, the recovering addict has the highest potential for successful sobriety.

Through intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization treatment using evidence-based recovery and peer support, healing from trauma and an end to addiction can both begin. A wide variety of pathways exist for most effective, yet individualized treatment for trauma. Some of those pathways may include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, dialectical behavioral therapy or other clinical modalities.

Regardless of the treatment pathway crafted for each individual, the goal is to treat underlying disorders and successfully overcome addiction. This treatment includes a whole-family approach with weekly family counseling sessions and supportive education.

When someone is a victim of trauma, dealing with the aftermath can seem impossible. Both the individual and their family are affected and very often addiction becomes a way of dealing with that trauma. This is nothing to be ashamed of and quality treatment works toward resolution of both problems at the same time. With a whole-family approach and individualized treatment plans suited to each client’s personal needs, a life free of both the trauma and resulting addiction can begin.

Trauma therapy at an accredited addiction treatment center like Aion Recovery Center in South Florida is the first step to beginning your journey to recovery. Call us today at 888-779-7516. You’ll be glad you did!