Trauma can leave a person feeling broken and lost and substances can seem like a way to escape this feeling. Relying on substances to cope with trauma is not uncommon and can lead to a substance use disorder (SUD) while worsening trauma symptoms. Those with a history of trauma are two to four times more likely to engage in or depend on substances. A combination of counseling that addresses both disorders at the same time, medications, and support groups to treat trauma and SUD have yielded the best results. Family also plays a crucial role in supporting those with trauma and SUD.
Click here to read more about effective treatment for trauma and SUD and learn how you can support loved ones.