Trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) frequently predispose a person to substance use. While exposure to trauma doesn’t necessarily lead to addiction, research clearly suggests that trauma is a major underlying source of addiction behavior.
Addictions, substances and compulsive behaviors often help reduce sensations of overwhelm that post-trauma changes create. Addictions and compulsions tend to take the place of self-soothing, provide much needed relaxation for a time, and seemingly protect from unwanted feelings and emotions.
It’s a high price to pay.
Health Psychology Sacramento provides trauma treatment, and fosters healing through genuine relationship in the context of compassionate understanding, connecting to an affirmative self-script, attending to relationships, nutrition, calming the brain, and healing body and mind.