Coping with Trauma and Addiction

Trauma can have a profound and lasting negative impact on individuals, often leading to the development of mental health disorders. In some cases, individuals may turn to drugs and alcohol as a form of self-medication to cope with their trauma. Understanding trauma is crucial in helping those struggling with addiction find a path to healing.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has recognized trauma and stress-related disorders as separate from anxiety disorders since 2013. These disorders include Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), acute stress disorder, reactive attachment disorder, and adjustment disorder. They are closely linked to obsessive-compulsive and dissociative disorders, as they can disrupt a person’s consciousness, identity, memory, perceptions, and emotions.

There are various therapy options available to address trauma disorders, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Self-Trauma Model, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR). South Coast Counseling increases access to impactful and quality substance abuse and mental health recovery treatment services for individuals and families facing life-threatening consequences. Our addiction treatment programs include therapy, education, and wellness initiatives in order to set you up for long-term success.