After a life-changing event, moving forward with work, school, and even social life is different. When that event is traumatic, it can be challenging to function at all. The long-term effects of traumatic events and subsequent trauma-related mental health conditions often require professional help in a trauma therapy program.
QuickSilver Counseling Center offers trauma treatment as part of our co-occurring addiction therapy programs in New Jersey. Our team of addiction and behavioral health professionals has experience helping people process their trauma and overcome their dependence on drugs and alcohol. Learn more about our services by calling 888.477.8941 today.
Understanding Trauma
Trauma is a psychological and emotional response to deeply distressing or disturbing events that overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope, causing feelings of helplessness and extreme stress. These events can be either single incidents or long-lasting experiences. Here are some common causes of trauma that may lead to addiction:
- Abuse, including physical, emotional, or sexual
- Neglect
- Natural disasters
- Accidents, including car accidents or workplace injuries
- Violence, including assault, robbery, war, and terrorism
Contrary to popular belief, trauma can occur after repeated exposure to less intense events. Regardless of the cause, people who have experienced trauma may feel the urge to numb their feelings with drugs or alcohol.
The Link Between Trauma and Addiction
The connection between trauma and addiction is complex and multifaceted. Traumatic experiences can cause individuals to feel intense emotional pain, which may lead them to seek relief through substance use. Drugs and alcohol can provide a temporary escape from these painful emotions, but over time, this coping mechanism can develop into addiction.
Additionally, the brain’s response to trauma can make it more susceptible to addiction. Traumatic experiences can alter the brain’s reward system, making it more sensitive to the effects of drugs and alcohol. This increased sensitivity can make it more challenging for individuals with a history of trauma to resist the pull of substance use.
Life in Recovery Starts Here
Learn more about QuickSilver Counseling Center’s addiction treatment and how our outpatient programs can help you or a loved one find hope for the future by calling 888.477.8941.
Recognizing the Signs of Long-Term Effects of Trauma
The long-term effects of trauma can manifest in various ways, depending on the individual and the nature of their traumatic experiences. Some signs that may indicate you or a loved one has been experiencing long-term effects of trauma include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Flashbacks (intrusive memories of the traumatic event)
- Nightmares
- Difficulty trusting others
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Irritability or anger
- Feelings of guilt or shame
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
If you recognize these sins in yourself or a loved one, QuickSilver Counseling Center may be able to help. Our co-occurring trauma therapy program offers support and compassion during the early stages of recovery.
What to Expect from Our Trauma Treatment Services
Our co-occurring trauma treatment services aim to address both trauma and addiction simultaneously, recognizing their interwoven nature. Some common therapies used in trauma treatment include:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a widely-used therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. In the context of trauma treatment, CBT can help clients recognize and challenge unhelpful thoughts related to their traumatic experiences and substance use.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT is a form of therapy that combines elements of CBT with mindfulness techniques to help individuals develop emotional regulation skills and distress tolerance. DBT can be particularly helpful for those struggling with self-harming behaviors or suicidal thoughts, which may be present in individuals dealing with both trauma and addiction.
Anger Management
Anger management therapy aims to help individuals recognize the triggers for their anger and develop healthier ways to cope with these emotions. This type of therapy can be beneficial for those whose anger is rooted in past traumas and contributes to their substance use.
The trauma therapy program at our outpatient addiction treatment center can provide valuable support and guidance to help our clients heal from their past experiences and build a healthier, addiction-free future.