Several factors closely link trauma and alcoholism. Children who have faced abuse are more likely to carry their unresolved trauma into adulthood and turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism. Alcohol consumption also affects one’s physical and mental states, leading to the development of co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, and the like. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism, reach out to Lighthouse Recovery’s dual diagnosis treatment program in Florida.
Lasting recovery isn’t just about completing detox; it also addresses the co-occurring disorders and the personal causes that culminated in addiction. Additionally, it empowers clients to move on from a traumatic past and build a better future. To learn more about our personalized recovery programs that treat both trauma and alcoholism, call us at 866.308.2090.
The Connections Between Trauma and Alcoholism
Trauma and alcoholism go hand-in-hand. Those showing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are more prone to developing a drinking problem. At the same time, those struggling with alcoholism are at higher risk for traumatic events, making quitting even harder. Thus, trauma, alcohol consumption, and PTSD can trap individuals in a vicious cycle of self-harm.
Trauma can result from physical injury or illness, or the body’s emotional response to a stressful experience. The common causes of trauma include the following:
- Chronic stress
- Physical and emotional neglect
- Bullying
- Harassment
- Sexual, physical, or emotional abuse
- Death of a loved one
- Divorce, break-ups, or separation
- Accidents
- Violence of any kind
- Work stress
- Illness
- Injury
- Surviving a war or natural disaster
- Everyday micro-aggressions, including racism, sexism, homophobia, etc
Trauma, especially childhood trauma, can affect the way the brain develops. Unable to handle stress or challenges, the person may turn to drinking as a way to avoid their problems. Doing so might actually worsen the problem unless they seek professional help and therapy.
Those struggling with trauma and alcoholism may also be neglecting their familial relationships, work obligations, or finances. Unable to move forward with their lives, they may develop additional co-occurring disorders. Without outside support, they may be stuck reliving painful memories of their past and engaging in self-destructive behavior.
How to Seek Help for Co-Occurring Disorders
Most of us have faced some kind of trauma in our lives. While it is impossible to prevent trauma from happening, steps can be taken to heal from hurtful encounters and find closure.
The following treatment options can be particularly helpful to those battling trauma and alcoholism together:
- Dual diagnosis treatment–a dual-diagnosis program treats the physical symptoms of alcoholism along with any co-occurring mental disorders such as PTSD. With medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and regular counseling, clients can build healthy habits and regain control of their lives.
- Trauma therapy–while there are different kinds of evidence-based therapies available, trauma therapy can help those with PTSD to fight the frequent flashbacks, let go of repressed emotions and face the future with hope and clarity.
- Aftercare–by opting for aftercare, clients can work with a therapist to uncover their triggers, create contingency plans around them, and take necessary precautions to minimize the chances of a relapse.
Heal From Trauma and Learn to Thrive at Lighthouse Recovery
At Lighthouse Recovery, we have helped countless Florida residents and other individuals find hope and healing from addiction. With years of expertise and expert staff, our treatment center in Boynton Beach, FL, offers a variety of addiction recovery programs that can be further customized as per your unique needs. From partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs to aftercare resources and trauma therapy, our team is here to assist you at every step of the recovery journey.
It is never too late to seek help. Call us at 866.308.2090 and begin your healing journey today.
