Trauma is a heavy burden to carry; its weight lingers long after the events that conceive it. Whether it stems from childhood emotional or physical abuse/neglect, a life-threatening accident, or the loss of a loved one, trauma can leave scars that aren't always visible, yet painful and troublesome. In some cases, our efforts to cope and heal from these unresolved emotional wounds can snowball into destructive habits of substance misuse or addiction.
Substance abuse often serves as a way to cope with the overwhelming emotions that stem from past trauma; offering a temporary escape from the pain and chaos that we may feel inside. While it may offer short-term relief or distraction, it ultimately worsens cycles of suffering that are difficult to break free from. Understanding the connection between trauma and substance abuse is key to helping those who struggle with both to find the healing they deserve.
The Connection Between Trauma and Substance Abuse
Trauma can affect the brain in profound ways. It can reshape how we view ourselves, our world, and our future. People who experience trauma, particularly in childhood, may develop lasting emotional scars such as anxiety, depression, anger, and distrust. Many become worn down by the onslaught of these emotions. In an effort to find relief, they desperately seek out ways to numb or dull the pain.
Enter substance misuse. Drugs, alcohol, and other substances can temporarily numb the emotional agony caused by trauma. While they might offer an initial sense of relief, the effects are fleeting, often leaving individuals feeling worse in the long run. The crash can send them spiraling deeper into despair, making them more reliant on substances to avoid confronting the real pain.
Trauma Responses and Coping Mechanisms
When someone experiences trauma, their body goes into survival mode. The emotional impact can alter the way the brain responds to stress. As a result, some people with unresolved trauma might struggle with heightened anxiety, intrusive memories, or feelings of powerlessness. In these moments, substances may provide a temporary form of relief. Alcohol, opioids, or even stimulants can act as emotional numbing agents, making it easier to forget or push down painful memories. However, this is a form of avoidance, and avoidance can be an unhealthy coping strategy when not used carefully.
When not addressing the root cause of their suffering, we can often prolong or worsen traumas by engaging in riskier behaviors that might increase our chances for retraumatization. To make matters worse, substance abuse can rewire the brain's reward system, making it harder to feel joy or satisfaction without the aid of substances. This props the door open for chemical dependence and ultimately addiction.
The Role of Shame and Isolation
Trauma often leads to feelings of shame, guilt, and a sense of isolation. People who have experienced trauma may feel like they’re broken or unworthy of love and support. These feelings can make it incredibly difficult to reach out for help or to seek healthy coping mechanisms. This sense of isolation, combined with the shame of what they’ve endured, can further propel someone into substance abuse. They may feel that substances are the only thing that can help them feel "normal" or "worthy" for a brief moment. Over time, this mindset can erode their self-worth, making it even harder to heal.
Breaking the Cycle
It’s important to acknowledge that substance abuse is not a moral failing but rather a symptom of deeper emotional pain. Healing requires both addressing the trauma and learning healthier ways to cope with distress. Here are a few steps that may help in breaking the cycle:
Acknowledge the trauma: Recognizing the impact of past trauma is the first step in the healing process. Therapy, especially trauma-focused therapy like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), can help individuals process their trauma in a safe, structured environment.
Develop healthy coping strategies: Learning to cope with emotions without substances is a crucial part of healing. Mindfulness, exercise, creative outlets, and building a strong support system can all be effective ways to deal with overwhelming emotions.
Practice self-compassion: The road to healing is rarely linear. There will be setbacks, moments of self-doubt, and times when the pain feels unbearable. Practicing self-compassion, and reminding yourself that you are worthy of healing, is essential during this process.
Build a support network: The journey to recovery is not something you need to face alone. Surrounding yourself with understanding and compassionate people can help you feel less isolated. Support groups, like those for trauma survivors or people in recovery, can also offer a sense of community and belonging.
Seek professional help: Overcoming both trauma and substance abuse can be incredibly difficult on your own. Working with therapists, counselors, or addiction specialists who are experienced in trauma-informed care can provide valuable guidance and support.
Start Working With a Trauma Therapist in Asheville, NC
Trauma can profoundly affect a person’s emotional and mental well-being, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to harmful coping mechanisms like substance abuse. The link between the two is not only understandable but also a call for more compassionate, trauma-informed care.
Healing from trauma and overcoming substance abuse are both long journeys, but they are journeys that can lead to freedom, self-love, and a renewed sense of purpose. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that it’s never too late to ask for help. There’s no shame in seeking support — it’s a courageous step toward a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you are interested in learning more or ready to take the first step toward improving your mental health, you can start your therapy journey with Strive On Counseling by following these simple steps:
Meet with a compassionate therapist
Begin your journey to healing and relief!
Other Services Offered by Strive On Counseling
At Strive On Counseling, we understand that trauma and depression are just one part of a larger picture of mental health. That’s why we offer a range of mental health services designed to support your overall well-being. In addition to online trauma therapy, our services include individual counseling, anxiety treatment, EMDR trauma therapy, therapy for men’s issues, mindfulness practices, Buddhist counseling, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and teletherapy/online therapy. Some other resources we offer include guided meditations, a list of books and other useful resources, and online courses. If you would like more information about any of these services, please don’t hesitate to reach out and start your therapy journey in North Carolina today!