A complete understanding of the intricate correlation between trauma and addiction is crucial to effective therapy.
Addiction is often misunderstood as a series of bad decisions, rather than a complex interaction between trauma and coping mechanisms.
“What causes addiction?” is one of the most deeply explored and researched questions. Why would someone persistently engage in behaviors that inevitably lead to long-term suffering? It is clear that there is no single answer. However, a growing body of research and clinical evidence suggests that addiction is often intertwined with traumatic experiences. Trauma, whether arising from childhood adversity, interpersonal violence, or other traumatic events, can profoundly affect an individual's susceptibility to addiction and their path to recovery.
Addiction has long been viewed through the lens of “bad decisions,” which has subsequently ostracized those who struggle with any form of addictive behavior. In truth, no one wants to be addicted. Dr. Gabor Maté, a distinguished addiction expert, challenges this perspective, saying that the notion that addiction arises from “bad decisions” is deeply shortsighted. He clarifies that addiction is a coping mechanism meant to alleviate the pain inflicted by childhood trauma. It is an attempt at self-medication, seeking temporary relief from overwhelming emotions and distressing memories.
During early childhood, a fundamental phase of development in which the brain is malleable, each experience leaves its mark and shapes neural circuits. When a child experiences neglect or abuse, whether physical, emotional, or sexual, this significantly affects brain development, potentially predisposing them to addiction. These adverse childhood experiences can disrupt the formation of secure attachments and healthy coping mechanisms. They can also affect the neural pathways involved in the regulation of stress, emotions and decision making, contributing to dysregulation and impeding the individual's ability to self-regulate, thus perpetuating the cycle of addiction.
Additionally, trauma can significantly affect an individual's brain reward system, prompting them to seek comfort in substances. Trauma can lead to deficiencies in the processing of endorphins and dopamine (neurochemicals crucial for pleasure and pain relief), leading people with addiction to self-medicate in an effort to compensate for their decreased neurostimulation. In essence, individuals become addicted to substances as substitutes for the brain chemicals their bodies struggle to process.
For decades, addiction has been perceived as a “disease” or a consequence of poor decisions, overlooking its underlying causes. In his seminal work, “In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts,” Dr. Maté advocates a compassionate approach, urging us to investigate not “why addiction,” but rather “why pain.” It is imperative to take a compassionate perspective towards addiction. By reframing addiction through the lens of trauma and compassion, people can embark on a journey of healing and growth.
Trauma-based approaches to addiction treatment recognize the underlying role of trauma in shaping addictive behaviors and prioritize healing and recovery. These approaches aim to create safe, supportive environments where people can address past trauma, develop healthy coping skills, and rebuild their lives free of addiction. Integrating trauma-informed care into addiction treatment can pave the way for sustainable recovery, empowering people to regain control of their lives.
(Contributions from an article by Pragati Goyal, Senior Clinical Psychologist at Lissun)
