Section Title THE EFFECTS OF TRAUMA ON ADDICTION

Transcription

1 Section Title THE EFFECTS OF TRAUMA ON ADDICTION 1

2 Section Title introduction Why do people become addicted to substances that are inherently bad for them? When you ask an addiction sufferer, they may not be able to tell you. When you ask a healthcare professional, they certainly can t tell you precisely why addiction occurs in each individual case. When talking about addiction with an addiction specialist, though, you ll come to understand that addiction is a disease that frequently entails multiple causes. In some cases, a person may be genetically susceptible to addiction. This is often why alcoholism and drug addiction are sometimes seen in more than one family member. Often, addiction results due to family exposure to drinking and drug abuse as a child; for instance, having a parent who suffers from a substance addiction can make their children more vulnerable to the disease. Quite often, as mental health professionals have uncovered, addiction to drugs or alcohol is related to trauma a physically or mentally traumatic experience that occurred in the sufferer s childhood or adult life. Trauma comes in various forms and often lingers long past its actual occurrence. The following text provides an overview of trauma as it relates to addiction and addiction treatment. By beginning to unravel the connections between trauma and addiction, the healthcare community can develop new strategies to help sufferers cope with both problems, so they can lead mentally healthful and sober lives. 2

3 Section Title TRAUMA: ITS CAUSES AND EFFECTS 3

4 Trauma: Its Causes and Effects causes of trauma include: People who experience trauma in their lives often face physiological and emotional effects. While the degree of the trauma may vary among sufferers, it s generally an experience that shatters the person s sense of security. Sometimes people suffer the effects of trauma after they ve been injured or someone close to them has been injured or killed. Trauma that induces profound psychological effects can occur at any time of life. unexpected death of a loved one military battle car accident serious illness/unexpected surgery physical/emotional/sexual abuse bullying neglect work-related accident dangerous or unstable environment natural disaster like a flood or earthquake 4

5 Trauma: Its Causes and Effects Other events in one s life can also trigger serious traumatic effects, like a breakup, a job loss, or moving to a new location. Psychologists report that there s no way to tell how a person will respond to a traumatic event until they ve experienced it. What they do know is that some people who experience or even witness a traumatic event can be profoundly affected by it to the point they display psychological symptoms associated with trauma that often include anxiety, depression, insomnia and even panic attacks. Some sufferers may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). When mental disorders associated with trauma are left untreated, some sufferers may attempt to self-medicate using drugs or alcohol, which can lead, of course, to addiction. 5

6 Section Title TRAUMATIC FALLOUT: IT S NOT ABOUT BRAVERY 6

7 Traumatic Fallout: It s Not About Bravery In some cases, sufferers of trauma don t think to get treatment for their psychological pain. In cases of grief, for instance, people might mistakenly believe their feelings are all part of the process. They may not realize when their grief has turned into a definitive emotional problem. Sometimes, people are afraid to get help early on for their suffering out of a sense of embarrassment. This is especially true among first responders, like police and fire fighters whose bravery is constantly required. Military service people might also put off seeking treatment and try to tough out the symptoms that plague them. 7

8 Traumatic Fallout: It s Not About Bravery Yet mental illness, like PTSD and depression, are emphatically NOT choices. These conditions do not have anything to do with one s bravery or character. The psychological effects of trauma also have nothing to do with one s strength. Toughing out their feelings often leads to feeling worn out and intensely strained by the effort. When one experiences something horrendous the death of a comrade in a battle or a car wreck that leaves both physical and emotional scars it is very common for human beings to suffer emotionally from these occurrences for a long time, unless they are addressed medically by a professional therapist. the psychological effects of trauma have nothing to do with one s strength 8

9 SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF TRAUMA- RELATED MENTAL DISORDERS 9

10 Signs and Symptoms of Trauma-Related Mental Disorders Trauma-related mental disorders often result in conditions like anger management problems, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Someone with a mental disorder triggered by intense trauma is apt to suffer from both physiological and emotional symptoms. physical symptoms include nightmares insomnia fatigue muscle tension nausea inability to focus or concentrate 10

11 Signs and Symptoms of Trauma-Related Mental Disorders psychological symptoms include shock hopelessness anxiety and fear guilt or shame mood swings confuion / reduced sense of perception 11

12 Signs and Symptoms of Trauma-Related Mental Disorders These symptoms can leave suffers quite debilitated. Over time, they can take a terrible toll on the health and well-being of the individual, both physically and mentally. According to research, roughly 8% of the U.S. population is suffering from PTSD on any given day. According to a study out of the University of Liverpool, traumatic life events are the biggest causes of anxiety and depression. 12

13 ADDICTION SETS IN: DUAL DIAGNOSIS

14 Addiction Sets In: Dual Diagnosis No one chooses to become addicted. In fact, it frequently takes sufferers by surprise because it happens so insidiously right under their very noses. For people who have suffered terrible trauma and have developed a mental illness as a result, a single drink or pill could lead them down a very dark road. Yet those initial drinks that a first responder, for instance, might take to reduce the fear or anger they feel after literally dodging bullets can, indeed, take the edge off. A soldier finds that a single pill is the only thing that helped them sleep tight after months of nightmares and interrupted sleep. This is how addiction begins to get a foothold among the suffering. 14

15 Addiction Sets In: Dual Diagnosis Self-medicating after trauma is a dangerous practice that often leads to addiction. Turning to addictive substances for relief of trauma s symptoms is a little bit like asking a loan shark for money; drugs and alcohol might give a little, but they expect much in return. Unfortunately, that drink won t alleviate emotional suffering for long. Once the sufferer develops a tolerance for the current dose, they must up that dose in order to experience any type of relief. In a short amount of time, one drink turns into five. Drinking in the evening isn t enough either. The person might begin to drink at lunch and every single day. in a short amount of time, one drink turns into five 15

16 Addiction Sets In: Dual Section Diagnosis Title The same occurs with drug use. A small amount can quickly turn into a substantial amount. One day, the person simply must have those substances not just to escape their emotional pain, but because they are physically, behaviorally and emotionally addicted to these substances. Without treatment, they will remain addicted.

17 Section Title SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CONCURRENT DISORDERS 17

18 Signs and Symptoms of Concurrent Disorders addiction signs & symptoms Once someone with a mental disorder like anxiety, depression or PTSD develops an addiction, they are said to have a dual diagnosis because they now have two diseases concurrent diseases that both need treatment. Either of these conditions can be severely debilitating, but when you combine them, you have a dangerous situation. The signs and symptoms of the mental disorder, as listed to the right, are apt to continue and even worsen. The sufferer may begin to experience suicidal thoughts, for instance. Yet addiction signs and symptoms will also be displayed. Withdrawing from family and friends Risk-taking behaviors Reduced coordination Reduced cognitive function Inability to control compulsions Attempting to obtain alcohol / drugs continually Withdrawal symptoms 18

19 Signs and Symptoms of Concurrent Disorders Without treatment, suffering can be expected to continue. Ideally, the sufferer will recognize they need treatment; however, sometimes it s up to family and friends to stage an intervention to convince the sufferer to get help quickly. 19

20 TREATMENT OF DUAL DIAGNOSIS 20

21 Treatment of Dual Diagnosis Once an individual has been diagnosed with concurrent disorders, it s important for them to undergo simultaneous treatments for both diseases. Since both diseases impact each other, it s ideal to hit them both immediately with therapies designed to halt their progress and initiate relief and recovery. Today, nearly 4 million people are living with a dual diagnosis. For this reason, many addiction treatment centers are now equipped to recognize and treat these co-existing disorders. Yet even though there are many treatment options designed for individuals suffering with a dual diagnosis, as few as 12% are getting the treatment they need. nearly 4 million people are living with dual diagnosis 21

22 Treatment of Dual Section Diagnosis Title Treatment is the key to managing both disorders. If you or a loved one meets the diagnostic criteria for dual diagnosis, it s important to know that there are treatment plans that can be customized for you. There are even plans that are designed with your occupation or gender in mind. If you are a first responder, for instance, there are treatment programs that recognize the inherent triggers associated with the job and can provide strategies that help sufferers cope with them. Once you enter an addiction treatment program, addiction specialists and healthcare providers can recommend a treatment plan that s designed specifically for you. 22

23 Section Title BEST TREATMENT MODELS 23

24 Best Treatment Models Dual diagnosis treatment is specialized and highly complex. To effectively manage each individual s co-existing conditions, it must essentially customize a plan. That said, there are some common approaches that often occur at the beginning of treatment. For instance, medical detox is almost always prescribed for people suffering from a drug or alcohol addiction. It s essential that the physical dependency on the addictive substance is broken so further treatment can be initiated. It s also common for dual diagnosis patients to be prescribed medications that address their mental disorder. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be given. In this way, the patient may feel less anxious as they are slowly weaned off the addictive substance. it s essential that the physical dependency of the addictive substance is broken 24

25 Best Treatment Section Models Title Once the patient completes the medical detox process, they can begin to undergo an integrated treatment model made up of therapies designed to address the mental illness and treatments that address the addiction. These treatments invariably overlap. Therapists realize, of course, that one of the major triggers for the charges in their care are the symptoms of mental illness. Consequently, strategies must be found to effectively deal with these triggers in order to prevent relapse. Some people may be able to overcome their mental problem in time; others, however, might suffer lifelong from depression or anxiety. In these cases, continued management is essential for warding off the triggers that cause them to drink or use drugs. 25

26 Best Treatment Section Models Title Traditional therapies are often tried for dual diagnosis patients. These include cognitive behavioral therapies and intensive outpatient therapies. Depending on the individual in question, some patients may be encouraged to remain at the addiction treatment center for a period of time before returning home. It always depends on the individual and their treatment needs. Cognitive behavioral therapy includes individual and group counseling and is a staple of addiction treatment. Therapy is also important for the mental health side of treatment. The patient may meet with a psychologist or psychiatrist to work to improve their mental health condition. 26

27 Best Treatment Models Because dual diagnosis patients are associated with a high risk for suicide, added support in the form of group therapy and aftercare is also essential for their long-term recovery. Aftercare programs such as 12-step programs (like AA or NA) can be helpful for addiction sufferers, but dual diagnosis patients require more than simply 12-step participation; they must regularly see their mental health therapists and take their medications as prescribed. If the treatment isn t working, they must be forthright with their caregivers. They may need more treatment or a different type of treatment plan altogether. dual diagnosis patients require more than 12-step participation 27

28 Section Title WHEN CONVENTIONAL TREATMENTS FAIL: ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT PROGRAMS 28

29 When Conventional Treatments Fail: Alternative Treatment Programs Conventional treatment models for dual diagnosis patients do work for many sufferers; however, they do not work for everyone. Sometimes additional and alternative treatments are needed to bridge the gap, to help them reach the recovery they are desperate for. Over the last several decades, many alternative treatments have been developed for addiction management. Similarly, these and other alternative treatments can also help someone suffering from a mental health disorder. It s not surprising that many of today s addiction treatment center staff members are encouraging dual diagnosis patients to engage in alternative therapies that are likely to enhance their long-term recovery process. over the last several decades, many alternative treatments have been developed 29

30 TYPES OF ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS FOR DUAL DIAGNOSIS SUFFERERS 30

31 Types of Alternative Treatments for Dual Diagnosis Sufferers One of the more popular and effective treatments for people with PTSD is art therapy. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with co-existing disorders, this is a sound treatment to check out. People who have PTSD often find it difficult to put their horrific experiences into words; this can make talking to a therapist difficult. Rather than focus solely on verbal communication, art therapists encourage patients to communicate their emotions through an art form. The act of creating provides a channel for the sufferer to get the feelings trapped within them out. In the long term, it can provide them with a new strategy for coping with stress or trauma. The act of creating art is very cathartic for many sufferers. people who have PTSD often find it difficult to put their horrific experiences into words 31

32 Types of Alternative Treatments for Dual Diagnosis Sufferers Restorative yoga is another popular alternative treatment that can enhance a conventional treatment plan. During yoga sessions, participants practice mindfulness. Each session, they practice the art of calmness. This gives the dual diagnosis patient space for healing a healthy break in their routine that might otherwise involve angst, fear or some other negative emotion. In addition, the physical exercise associated with the practice of yoga causes the body to release feel-good enzymes that not only repair muscles, but they work in the brain by boosting a sense of reward, a sense of well-being. 32

33 Types of Alternative Treatments for Dual Diagnosis Sufferers Other alternative treatments that are sometimes tried among dual diagnosis sufferers include family therapy, music therapy and holistic living programs. Some patients find that residing in a sober-living community is also helpful during the first year of their treatment. 33

34 Section Title conclusion Trauma is a major factor in the development of mental illnesses, and mental illnesses often play a role in the development of addiction. Coping with trauma is sometimes a long-term process studded with little success. When trying to cope on their own, some people turn to forms of self-medication. When this practice turns to abuse, addiction is not far off. at the same time. It can be difficult for patients to undergo treatments that inevitably fail, but it s important for them to realize that these setbacks are merely part of the process. The key is to continue treatment and also to try new evidence-based treatments that have been shown to help other mental health and addiction sufferers. and there may be intense periods of struggle, but it s essential for recovery. Mental health disorders and addiction are not likely to cure themselves. It s through sound treatment that suffering individuals can regain their lives. It s only been since the 1990s that dual diagnosis patients have been treated simultaneously for both disorders. This is why researchers are still trying to develop effective plans for managing both conditions If you believe you are struggling with two disorders a mental health condition and addiction you shouldn t wait to seek treatment. Healthy forms of disease management await you. It may take time 34

35 Sources Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders at Boston University, Identifying Trauma and Substance Abuse in Adolescents. Dayton, Tian, Growing Up with Toxic Stress or Addiction and Its Long-Term Impact, The Huffington Post, 1/19/13. DualDiagnosis.org, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Addiction. National Child Traumatic Stress Network, Making the Connection: Trauma and Substance Abuse, June Sack, David M.D. Emotional Trauma: An Often Overlooked Root of Addiction, PsychCentral. SAMHSA, Trauma-Informed Approach and Trauma-Specific Interventions. Science Daily, Traumatic Life Events Biggest Cause of Anxiety, Depression, 10/16/13. Szalavitz, Maia, How Childhood Trauma Creates Life-Long Addicts, TheFix.com, 9/25/11. Szalavitz, Maia, How Childhood Trauma May Make the Brain Vulnerable to Addiction, Depression, Time, 8/1/12. 35