Healing the Wounds Within The Role of Trauma in Substance Use and Public Health Interventions
Introduction
Trauma is a pervasive issue affecting millions of individuals worldwide. It has long been recognized as a significant driver behind substance use disorders. Whether it's childhood adversity, domestic violence, or exposure to community violence, unresolved trauma can deeply impact a person's mental health. This, in turn, may lead them to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol. For public health professionals, understanding the trauma-substance use connection is crucial to effectively intervene and support recovery. In this blog post, we will explore the science behind trauma and addiction, discuss public health strategies for implementing trauma-informed care, and examine community-level solutions to build resilience and support systems.