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Many people who experience trauma—whether from childhood experiences, loss, or significant life events—find themselves turning to drugs or alcohol to cope with painful emotions. This connection between trauma and substance use is more common than most realize. Recognizing how trauma affects both the mind and body can help individuals take the first step toward healing and recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling with drug and alcohol addiction in Encino, compassionate help is available today. Contact New Spirit Recovery or call (424) 317-9319.
If someone is experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.
What Is Trauma?
Trauma happens when someone experiences an event or situation that is deeply distressing or overwhelming. It can leave lasting emotional, mental, and even physical effects.
Common types of trauma include:
- Childhood trauma: abuse, neglect, or unstable home environments
- Accidents or injuries: car crashes, serious medical issues, or physical harm
- Emotional loss: the death of a loved one or relationship breakdown
- Exposure to violence: assault, combat, or witnessing traumatic events
These experiences can change how the brain and body respond to stress, leading to ongoing fear, anxiety, or sadness.
How Trauma Affects the Brain
When someone goes through a traumatic experience, the brain’s “alarm system” becomes overly sensitive. The body stays in a constant state of alert, even long after the danger has passed. This can lead to:
- Difficulty sleeping or relaxing
- Sudden mood changes or anger
- Feeling numb or disconnected
- Flashbacks or intrusive memories
Over time, the brain may associate certain emotions or environments with pain. This is where substance use often begins—as a way to quiet those intense feelings.
Why Trauma Can Lead to Substance Use
People who experience trauma may turn to substances for temporary relief. Drugs or alcohol can numb emotional pain, offer a false sense of control, or help someone feel more “normal.” However, this short-term comfort often creates a harmful cycle:
- Emotional distress triggers the need for relief.
- Substance use temporarily eases the symptoms.
- Dependence develops, increasing emotional instability.
Instead of addressing the root cause—unresolved trauma—the brain becomes dependent on substances to function.
Signs That Trauma May Be Linked to Substance Use
Not everyone realizes how closely their emotional wounds are tied to their drinking or drug use. Some signs include:
- Using substances to cope with stress or memories
- Feeling anxious, fearful, or depressed without knowing why
- Difficulty trusting others or forming healthy relationships
- Experiencing recurring nightmares or flashbacks
- Feeling “numb” or detached from everyday life
If these patterns sound familiar, it may be time to seek help.
Healing Requires Treating Both Trauma and Substance Use
Proper recovery means addressing both trauma and substance use together. Treating only one often leaves the other unresolved, increasing the chance of relapse. A trauma-informed program provides care that prioritizes safety, trust, and emotional healing.
At New Spirit Recovery, we understand the importance of treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our approach helps individuals identify triggers, build healthy coping skills, and process painful memories in a supportive environment.
Key parts of trauma-informed care may include:
- Therapeutic support: personalized therapy to address emotional wounds
- Mindfulness and self-care: techniques to calm the nervous system
- Peer and family involvement: restoring healthy communication and trust
- Holistic healing: approaches that nurture emotional and physical well-being
Taking the First Step Toward Healing
Healing from trauma and substance use takes time, patience, and compassionate care. You don’t have to face it alone. Understanding that your experiences are valid—and that recovery is possible—is the first step toward lasting change.
Reach out to New Spirit Recovery today for compassionate help with drug and alcohol addiction in Encino. We’re here to listen, support, and guide you toward a brighter, healthier future. Contact us online or call (424) 317-9319.