Coping with Trauma: Unhealthy Substance Use
Individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences, particularly during their formative years, are often not equipped with effective coping mechanisms to manage the symptoms that arise as a consequence of their trauma. Consequently, it is not uncommon for trauma survivors to resort to substance abuse to numb their symptoms, alleviate social anxiety, or experience temporary pleasure. However, this approach can prove detrimental in the long run, exacerbating their condition and causing further harm.
The symptoms of substance abuse can vary depending on the substance being used. However, some general long-term effects can occur regardless of the substance:
Long-term health issues
Dependence on a substance
Increased negative mental health symptoms
Money issues
Compromised immune system
Self-sabotaging actions (relationships, work, well-being)
Taking time to assess your relationship to substance use can help you identify the role it plays in your life. It is not possible to make blanket statements about which substances to use and how much to use. Each individual must consider their values and boundaries when it comes to substance use. You may have already established clear guidelines based on your experiences and beliefs. For example, you may have decided to abstain from alcohol due to a family history of substance abuse, or you may limit your alcohol consumption to weekends to avoid impacting your work performance. Ultimately, you are the best judge of what works for you and what you need to maintain a healthy relationship with substances. It is important to be mindful of your choices and to seek support if you feel that your substance use is becoming problematic.
The University of Colorado Boulder Health and Wellness Services has developed a valuable resource to help individuals reflect on their substance use. The resource includes questions such as "How do I feel when I use?" and "How do I feel when I don't use?" These prompts can help you identify the impact of substance use on your physical and emotional well-being. Additionally, the resource asks you to consider how often you want to use substances in the future, which can help you to establish clear boundaries and goals for your substance use. By reflecting on these questions, you can better understand your relationship with substances and make informed decisions about how to move forward.
Making Changes
If you have come to the realization that you want to change how you use substances, there are several things you can try. One approach is to reduce or cut out substance use for a period of time. This could involve participating in a tradition like Dry January, or simply setting a personal goal to abstain from substances for a certain period of time. Another option is to work with a mental health clinician to address the underlying issues contributing to your substance use. This could involve exploring and addressing trauma, social anxiety, or undiagnosed mental health concerns. By seeking support and making intentional changes, you can achieve a healthier relationship with substances and improve your overall well-being.
If you suspect that you may be dealing with addiction or require additional support, specialized resources can be incredibly helpful. Many resources are available, including free programs like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Additionally, various types of mental health and substance use treatments are available, ranging from inpatient or residential programs to online or outpatient programs that allow you to continue working while receiving treatment. If you are already working with a therapist, they can likely provide you with referrals for specialized treatment. It is important to seek support and treatment if you are struggling with addiction, as it can significantly impact your physical and emotional well-being. With the right resources and support, overcoming addiction and achieving long-term recovery is possible.
If you are looking to work through your triggers or trauma, seeking the support of a therapist can be incredibly beneficial. A therapist can provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your experiences and develop coping strategies. If you are interested in working with a therapist, you can book a consultation to see if they are a good fit for you. Additionally, support groups can be a valuable resource for individuals struggling with addiction or mental health concerns. Support groups provide a space for individuals to connect with others going through similar experiences and can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Whether you work with a therapist or attend a support group, seeking support is an important step toward healing and recovery.
