Trauma

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Facts about Trauma and Substance Use

  • More than half of substance abusing women have PTSD diagnoses compared to 11% of general population. 

  • 55-99% of women in treatment for SUD report past trauma exposure (SAMSHA) 

  • Over 50% of pregnant women with SUD have PTSD symptoms 

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

To be diagnosed with PTSD, an adult must have all of the following for at least 1 month:

  • At least one re-experiencing symptom
    • Flashbacks—reliving the trauma over and over, including physical symptoms like a racing heart or sweating
    • Bad dreams
    • Frightening thoughts
  • At least one avoidance symptom
    • Staying away from places, events, or objects that are reminders of the experience
    • Avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the traumatic event
  • At least two arousal and reactivity symptoms
    • Being easily startled
    • Feeling tense or “on edge”
    • Having difficulty sleeping, and/or having angry outbursts
  • At least two cognition and mood symptoms
    • Trouble remembering key features of the traumatic event
    • Negative thoughts about oneself or the world
    • Distorted feelings like guilt or blame
    • Loss of interest in enjoyable activities
Not all Trauma exposure leads to PTSD – Trauma exposure is also connected with other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and personality disorders (borderline personality disorder, DID)
 

Trauma Informed Care - How can providers help women manage trauma?

  • Provide a supportive, safe space to talk about trauma 

  • Educate caregivers about Trauma and PTSD 

  • Encourage self-soothing and other positive activities: relaxation, meditation, exercise, yoga, prayer, quiet music, spend time in nature 

  • Encourage self-compassion 

  • Help caregivers learn to interrupt trauma reactions 

  • Encourage caregivers to develop other safe spaces and trust people to talk with 

  • Interact with sensitivity 

    • Learn what you can do to help Moms feel safe 

    • Be consistent and trustworthy – Show mom’s that you are following through on discussed plans and that you are a reliable support 

    • Seek to understand WHY they are doing or avoiding something 

    • Be collaborative, strengths focused and empowering 

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Links to resources