As any drug and alcohol counselor can attest, childhood trauma can have rippling effects well into adulthood. Kids who experience traumatic events at a young age often experience addiction to alcohol or other substances later. Below is an introduction to the link between them and how treatment can help.  

What Is the Link?

Abuse that occurs while a brain is in development changes its size, shape, and number of connections. These changes affect cortisol production, memory, emotional regulation, and behavior. 

Because of this, childhood trauma victims are more likely to develop anxiety and depression, which puts them at greater risk of self-medicating and addiction. It is also directly correlated with smoking and eating or drinking to excess. 

Even trauma during adulthood can influence risk, with 35% to 75% of veterans with PTSD abuse drugs or alcohol. Consider how much greater effect trauma would have on a developing brain. 

How Does Treatment Help?

A drug and alcohol counselor can help patients avoid a relapse and rebound successfully if one occurs. For instance, patients learn to put effective plans in place to deal with drug cravings when they arise. Together, patient and counselor develop strategies—such as finding new environments and friends—to avoid drugs in the first place so that a relapse is less likely. 

Patients also discover how to modify habitual behaviors and learn what to do if a relapse does occur. It can also help to involve family and friends in the therapy so they can learn how to support the substance abuser and help them avoid falling into old behaviors.

If you seek a qualified drug and alcohol counselor, contact White Spruce Counseling in Rochester, NY. They serve patients throughout Monroe County and the surrounding areas. In addition to substance abuse counseling, they offer help with anger management, domestic abuse, PTSD, and depression. They are renowned throughout the Upstate New York region for their compassionate, open communication, advanced problem-solving skills, and convenient payment options. Learn more about them on their website or call (585) 424-2436 to schedule an appointment with a drug and alcohol counselor.