Trauma and Addiction; How Does One Impact the Other?

Trauma is an experience that we all wish we could avoid. Traumatic situations do not feel good, are unexpected, and most times seemingly unfair. Sometimes, depending on the intensity of the situation, it can be devastating and debilitating, for an unspecified period of time. It does not come with a detailed outline or expiration date. Running trying to escape from the emotions and feelings associated is most often our first thought. Wondering, ‘how can I get through this, when will it end, and will things ever get better?’ 

As a therapist, I wish I could tell you that there is a magical remedy for instant relief. However, trauma impacts the brain in profound ways, particularly the areas responsible for emotion regulation, stress response, and decision-making. When someone experiences trauma, the brain goes into survival mode, often leading to heightened anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional distress.

To cope with these overwhelming feelings, many people turn to substances like alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication to numb their pain. This self-medicating behavior provides temporary relief but ultimately reinforces a destructive cycle—because the underlying trauma remains unaddressed. 

Trauma affects the brain and our behavior in several ways: 

1. Dysregulated Stress Response – Trauma changes the way the brain processes stress. Most often the body remains in a constant state of fight-or-flight, making substances seem like a quick escape or a quick fix.

2. Emotional Numbing – Many individuals who have experienced trauma struggles with emotions such as guilt, shame, and fear. Drugs and alcohol temporarily dull these painful feelings, which may increase use and lead to addiction.

3. Impulse Control & Risk-Taking – Trauma can impair the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which regulates impulse control, making it harder to resist cravings and difficulty in making healthy decisions.

Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score, notes, "The greatest sources of our suffering are the lies we tell ourselves," emphasizing how unresolved trauma can keep individuals trapped in harmful patterns.

Conclusion:

By addressing past trauma–related wounds, seeking support, and learning healthier coping mechanisms, individuals can break free and reclaim their lives. If you or someone you know are struggling with trauma related addictive behaviors, please reach out for help. There is support available and various therapeutic interventions that may be helpful to address unresolved trauma. Healing is possible, you are not alone. 

Resources for Support If you or someone you know is struggling with trauma and addiction, here are some valuable resources:

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – www.samhsa.gov

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – www.nami.org

• The Trauma Research Foundation – www.traumaresearchfoundation.org

• Books: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Maté

📌 Have you experienced trauma and struggled with addiction? What has helped you in your healing journey? Share your thoughts in the comments or reach out for support.