You probably know that substance abuse and addiction affect people from all walks of life and all backgrounds. However, certain traumatic experiences can increase the chances that a person develops substance abuse issues in adulthood, particularly when these experiences take place in childhood.
These formative years help a child develop an understanding of the world and the people around them. If a person is exposed to adverse experiences during their childhood, it’s bound to have an effect on them as an adult.
What Are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)?
ACEs are negative factors or experiences that children may be exposed to during the first 18 years of their life. They include:
- Physical or emotional neglect
- Witnessing domestic violence
- Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse
- Residing with a mentally ill loved one
- Losing one or both parents
Research shows that experiencing one or more ACEs increases a person’s likelihood of developing substance abuse issues as an adult. This is largely due to the chronic stressful state that persistent childhood trauma contributes to, and this chronic stress can lead to states of continuous arousal and hypervigilance. Accordingly, many people use substances to manage their mental health in light of the chronic stress that resulted from negative childhood experiences.
What Are Some Healthy Ways to Cope With Past Trauma?
People struggling with the effects of past trauma are encouraged to speak with a mental health professional. Talk therapy is often beneficial, in this case, and some people also require treatment with antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication to get a handle on their mental health. There are also personal steps you can take to better cope with lingering trauma:
- Develop a Support Network – A support network can be made up of friends and family members, but it should also include people who understand your struggle personally. In this case, joining a support group can be very beneficial.
- Make Time for Relaxation – Find time for relaxing hobbies, such as reading, meditation, yoga, and other pursuits. Relaxation is a great natural method for combatting stress, which can keep you happy and grounded.
- Take Care of Your Physical Health – Eating nutritious food, exercising on a daily basis, and getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night can have a major impact on general wellness and mental health.
- Know What Triggers Your Trauma – Triggers can be people and places, or they can be as simples as sights, sounds, and smells. Understanding your triggers can help you avoid them, as well as devise methods for coping with them that doesn’t involve drugs or alcohol.
In addition to seeking assistance for past trauma, people with substance abuse issues are also encouraged to seek out addiction treatment from a trusted provider.
Where to Find Addiction Recovery Treatment in Albuquerque
At Duke City Recovery Toolbox, patients receive the support they need to overcome substance abuse issues. Along with our outpatient addiction recovery treatment, we also provide behavioral health therapy, as well as peer support specialists to keep you steadfast in your sobriety. Contact us to learn more or call (505) 224-9777 to schedule an intake appointment at our Albuquerque clinic.
