Trauma can lead to addictions.

Our understanding of trauma and its effects on people is clearer than it was just a few years ago. One key thing we’ve learned, trauma is much more common than we once thought. For example, many people with unresolved trauma will turn to drugs or alcohol to numb themselves to it—and they get addicted in the process. Many other addictions follow, besides drugs and alcohol.  75 percent of the female patients we see report a traumatic event in their past. For our male patients, it’s around 50 percent. Those are astounding numbers! Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event such as an accident, natural disaster, emotional or physical abuse, extreme poverty, chronic social isolation, or war.  It’s a difficult combination to untangle, but we may be getting a handle on it.There’s power in numbers: Group therapy sessions can be quite helpful for allowing people to work through their trauma issues. People hear others’ stories, and they see similarities. They realize they aren’t alone in what they experienced. They feel validated that it was wrong and that it wasn’t their fault. It can be very impactful and liberating when a therapist or counselor helps them realize all that. But hearing it from someone who has experienced the same can be even more powerful.Let's heal together! Anxiety can trigger depression and other behavioral, physical, and mental health issues. It is especially hard if you are dealing with other personal, work, relationship, or family-related issues. Please be aware that it is okay to ask for help.