Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) frequently occur together, creating complex challenges for those seeking recovery. Studies show that 20 to 35 percent of individuals with PTSD also have a substance use disorder, while an even larger percentage of those struggling with addiction have a history of trauma, estimated at 75 percent or higher (National Library of Medicine).
Trauma and addiction are deeply connected. During PTSD Awareness Month, we are shining a light on this intersection and the trauma-informed practices that help our clients heal from substance use and the wounds that often underlie it.
A Universal Precautions Approach to Trauma
Given the high prevalence of trauma among people with substance use disorders, Spectrum adopts a universal precautions approach to care. We assume that all of our clients may have a trauma history.
Every client is screened at intake for trauma, using tools that assess both adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and recent traumatic events. We also examine how trauma impacts current functioning, including how it intersects with substance use. This comprehensive view ensures that trauma-related symptoms are addressed as part of each person’s recovery plan.
Why PTSD Is Rising Among Young Adults
Recent studies show that PTSD rates among college students have more than doubled in recent years, now affecting 7.5 percent of this population (JAMA Network Open). The factors driving this increase are multifaceted: poverty, violence, abuse, neglect, and intergenerational trauma all play a role.
Spectrum’s approach acknowledges that many young adults turning to substances are coping with unresolved trauma. We support youth by supporting the family system. Strengthening family connections, when safe and possible, can buffer the impacts of trauma and support long-term recovery.
Supporting Women, Mothers, and Other Vulnerable Groups
While PTSD is common across many populations, women and mothers, in particular, often report high rates of trauma and PTSD symptoms. Additionally, research shows that LGBTQIA+ individuals and those impacted by social determinants of health face greater risks of both trauma and substance use.
Spectrum tailors services to address these unique challenges. We recognize the intersectionality of marginalized populations. This means offering wraparound support to meet basic needs (such as transportation and housing), connecting clients to additional services, and fostering a caring environment responsive to each person’s background and identity.
Creating a Trauma-Informed System of Care
Being trauma-informed requires an organizational culture shift. Spectrum has committed to building a trauma-informed system of care across all levels of service.
Core principles include:
- Promoting physical and psychological safety
- Collaborative, person-centered care
- Shared decision-making
- Responsiveness to culture, gender, and individual differences
- Empowering client voice and choice
Training staff is an essential component, but it is not the whole picture. Spectrum also provides trauma-informed supervision and continually assesses its environments to ensure they foster safety and healing.
Evidence-Based Tools for Dual Diagnosis Treatment
For clients with both PTSD and SUD, Spectrum offers evidence-based practices designed to address both conditions concurrently. All clinical staff are trained on the impacts of trauma and effective interventions.
One key tool is Seeking Safety, a structured, evidence-based program developed by Lisa Najavits, Ph.D., that helps clients develop coping skills to manage trauma symptoms without turning to substances. Seeking Safety focuses on present-day skills, helping clients stabilize before processing deeper trauma later in recovery.
In the early stages of treatment (such as inpatient or residential care), the focus is on building safety and coping skills. In long-term outpatient care, clients who are ready can begin to explore and process unresolved trauma in greater depth.
Why Trauma-Informed Care Improves Outcomes
Research shows that trauma-informed care improves treatment engagement and outcomes. When treatment systems are not trauma-informed and may be authoritarian or disempowering, clients may be triggered and either return to use or leave treatment early.
Conversely, creating an environment of trust, empowerment, and safety supports better retention and reduces relapse risk. Many clients at Spectrum have experienced substance use linked to unresolved trauma, and trauma-informed care has helped them achieve lasting recovery.
Healing Wounds for a Brighter Future
Trauma is a powerful driver of substance use, but it does not have to define a person’s future. Through compassionate, trauma-informed care, Spectrum Health Systems helps clients heal the whole person, addressing the visible and invisible wounds of addiction.
During PTSD Awareness Month, we renew our commitment to supporting every client with the respect, understanding, and evidence-based care they deserve.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction or a substance use disorder, call Spectrum Health Systems today at 1-877-MyRehab.
