If you are dealing with an addiction problem, there may be a chance your life was affected by childhood trauma. In fact, childhood trauma and addiction are closely connected. Of course, not everyone who has addiction issues was a victim of childhood trauma, but most people who have been a victim of trauma struggles with substance abuse. Why does this occur? What is the connection between childhood trauma and addiction? Let’s take a closer look at this topic.
About Childhood Trauma
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, childhood trauma is defined as: “The experience of an event by a child that is emotionally painful or distressful, which often results in lasting mental and physical effects.” Some of the more common ways a child may experience trauma include:
- Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse and neglect
- Natural disasters
- Violence in the family or community
- Loss of a loved one through violence or unexpectedly
- Substance use disorder in the family
- Refugee and war experiences
- Serious accidents or illness
According to the National Children’s Alliance, approximately 700,000 children are abused a year, which makes this a common occurrence for children. However, sometimes people do not realize children are traumatized, because they can hide their feelings. Yet, the trauma may come out later. Consequently, this is when childhood trauma and addiction originates.
Connection Between Childhood Trauma And Addiction
When a child becomes an adult, they start to face situations and complex relationships that could trigger the emotions from the past. The trauma that they thought was buried comes to the surface. Therefore they may experience anxiety, nightmares, depression, and other uncomfortable emotions.
In addition, they may not be able to have a close relationship with others due to unresolved trauma. Trusting others can be a problem, which makes bonding difficult. As a result, people start trying to self-medicate to avoid the pain and upheaval caused by the trauma. Thus, drug addiction problems begins.
Moving Past Trauma And Addiction
At a treatment center for trauma and addiction, therapists will assist you in getting to the core of your problem. By delving into the past, you can confront hidden trauma, resolve turmoil, and move forward with less stress. Therapists will guide you along the way as you quit whatever substance you are on. Some of the therapy programs that are helpful in dealing with trauma include:
- Group therapy program
- Individual therapy program
- Family therapy program
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy program
- Dialectical behavior therapy program
Take the first step is by contacting a treatment center and begin the process of evaluation. You will undergo an assessment phase first with a professional therapist. They will discuss the various program options with you. These will include:
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Partial hospitalization treatment
- Outpatient treatment care
- Alumni treatment program
Next, you can begin your journey to a healthy life.
Find Hope At Blueprint Recovery Center
Blueprint Recovery Center has just what you need to find healing success. You will meet caring and compassionate therapists who will make sure you are on the right track. Reach out and take the first step for your health, and you will discover the joy of knowing you are on the right path. At Blueprint, we offer a diverse range of treatments to fit your lifestyle. Our intake therapist will help you find the ideal treatment program.
Do not let drug addiction get in the way of your future happiness in life. Now that you know more about childhood trauma and addiction, seek help by contacting us at 833.654.1004; we will guide you every step of the way. Addiction does not have to control your life any longer. Get the help that you need today.
