If you have a loved one who has been dealing with substance abuse problems, you’re likely looking to better understand what caused their drug addiction in the first place. In many cases, reliance on illicit substances can stem from past traumas. The following guide offers an introduction to this subject matter, so you can better work with your family member to keep them on the path to recovery.

What Causes Trauma?

A traumatic event is considered anything that has a long-lasting negative effect on a person’s emotional state and lifestyle. This can vary depending on the individual and their unique state of mind, but common examples of traumatic events are any circumstances that include violence, extreme emotions, or assault. Often, the assault or abuse is either physical, emotional, or sexual. Because of the distressing, disturbing nature of these events, many individuals come away from the experience with a condition known as post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. 

What Is the Connection Between PTSD & Drug Addiction?

The long-lasting effects of PTSD can vary, but all of them have a significant impact on the individual’s ability to cope with triggers. On any given day, they may experience feelings of extreme anxiety, despair, depression, irritability, confusion, or fear. To minimize these negative emotions, some people try to self-medicate through substances that eliminate or redirect those feelings. For example, if an individual experiences substantial anxiety due to their traumas, they may try to alleviate those feelings by using downers. Conversely, if their trauma caused feelings of depression or confusion, they may try to counteract those emotions with drugs that increase their energy.

Even though these initial uses aren’t related to the desire to use drugs, they lead to an addiction that forces your loved one into a cycle. The person dealing with substance abuse cannot stop using because they enjoy the reprieve from their trauma-related PTSD or other issues. This often comes as a result of the person failing to seek therapy or other forms of treatment to deal with their traumatic experience or other underlying problems.

If you have a loved one trying to overcome a drug addiction brought on by trauma, turn to the compassionate professionals at The LCADA Way. Serving residents throughout Lorain, Medina, and Erie Counties since 1981, they have the knowledge, experience, and caring demeanor needed to ensure a successful turnaround. Their licensed professionals genuinely invest in your loved one and do everything they can to get them on the path to recovery. Visit their website or call (440) 989-4900 to schedule a consultation today.