Treating the Roots of Addiction by Addressing Unresolved Trauma
“Research has shown that exposure to traumatic situations and PTSD increases vulnerability to engage in addictive behaviors and substance use. One theory suggests that this happens because people with PTSD who experience negative feelings may resort to substance use (like using alcohol and other drugs) as a way to self-medicate and ease the sense of sadness, distress and anxiety they experience. With repeated and long-term use of these substances, this self-medication can lead to addiction.”
Mustafa al’Absi, University of Minnesota, Ph.D, Medical School, Duluth Global Health Research Institute.
Research and Development
In partnership with experts and organizations based in Los Angeles, New York City, and London, that offer group therapy and 1:1 drug counseling, we are currently meeting with treatment providers, social workers and other professionals who are committed to the overdose crisis in America (and beyond) to better understand their approach with treating people with substance use disorders.
We are working with dozens of clinics and organizations across the globe, hearing directly from people on the front lines who are facing various elements of the addiction crisis, to understand each region’s situation so that we may build better tools to heal sufferers of substance use disorders.
E-learning Training and Toolkits
Feedback from our colleagues will inform the creation of e-learning toolkits and other online resources, at no cost, for individuals looking to manage and recover from the use of addictive substances.
Training the Trainers
Together with our partners, we are also developing specific training toolkits for professionals who may have limited understanding on how to minimize stigmas and properly treat marginalized communities who are struggling with substance use disorders.
