Studies have found that children who have experienced traumatic events undergo grappling physical changes involving the brain (mainly size and shape). This disrupts a child’s normal growth pattern at a time when they’re simultaneously being forced to adapt to mature situations prematurely. With that said, it’s no surprise that childhood trauma survivors have increased vulnerability to substance use.
Substance use and drinking can often be a vain means of self-medication for the effects of past trauma. While there’s nothing wrong with drinking socially this technique of self-mediation is often unsustainable. Instead of addressing your underlying issues, you’re turning away from the true source of your stress. Eventually, the only way to truly begin your journey to recovery is to address the route-cause of your dependency alongside substance use or drinking.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
When it comes to childhood trauma, being aware of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is beneficial. ACEs refer to any upsetting or traumatic childhood experiences that cause disruption in normal childhood development. As you might have guessed, the scope of ACEs any person might experience is wide, but these experiences often directly related to substance use disorder and heavy alcohol consumption. There are numerous types of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) but some of the more common examples include:
- Emotional or physical trauma
- Death of a loved one
- Exposure to mental health issues, addiction or both at home
- Parental divorce or separation
- Incarceration of a family member
- Living in poverty
An ACE score test is often used to highlight a person’s risk of developing addictive behaviors based on their background and history. While it’s true that some people can trace their behavior back to a single painful childhood experience, the environment a child grows up in is not the single determining factor for their overall health and wellbeing as an adult. Early childhood trauma isn’t the only risk factor for substance use later in life, but it can create a susceptibility to drinking and substance use if left untreated.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addiction and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
