Trauma is a natural part of life, as nobody is immune to the stress and pain that comes with heartache, grief, or loss. With time, most trauma can begin to heal, as humans are adaptable and resilient. However, sometimes trauma does not heal and is instead repressed. If this unhealed trauma is not properly addressed, it can begin to manifest in several mental health disorders and negative behaviors. Those who are struggling with a substance use disorder are especially vulnerable to unhealed trauma, as drugs or alcohol can magnify the symptoms of a mental health disorder.
If you know someone dealing with trauma and struggling with substance use, they may need a dual diagnosis treatment program. Treating trauma and substance use simultaneously may seem daunting, but preventing a patient from relapsing is necessary. At CeDAR, we offer dual diagnosis treatment programs administered by licensed professionals with years of experience. Recovery is possible if you take the first steps right away.
What Is Unhealed or Repressed Trauma?
When they hear the word “trauma,” most people think of soldiers returning from battle or victims of sexual assault. However, the reality is that people from all walks of life suffer from trauma every day. Trauma can be anything too intense for your brain to process at the moment. It also does not get better when it is ignored. Someone who has, consciously or unconsciously, blocked out their trauma can still feel its effects in their day-to-day life.
Simply put, unhealed or repressed trauma is trauma that has been left to fester and harms a person’s physical or mental health.
What Are the Signs of Unhealed Trauma?
There may be instances when an individual may not realize the extent of their trauma or may not even realize that they are dealing with the symptoms of unhealed trauma. Some of the signs of unhealed trauma may include:
- Trouble concentrating
- Mood swings
- Avoidance of activities, people, events, or places that remind them of their trauma
- Fatigue and exhaustion
- Disturbed sleep
- Sudden changes in eating habits or weight
- Muscle soreness or weakness
- Feelings of intense detachment or loneliness
- Irritability, fear, anger, or anxiety
- Obsessive and compulsive behaviors
- Denial that certain events happened
- Substance use in an attempt to escape or numb negative emotions
While this list is already very long, it is not a comprehensive list. The effects of trauma can be far-reaching and, in certain cases, debilitating.
How Do You Deal With Trauma?
While it may be tempting to ignore trauma and work around it, leaving the problem unresolved is no solution. If you are ready to begin healing from trauma, the first step is recognizing that you have suffered trauma and need help. It can be overwhelming and even terrifying to confront the past, especially if you do not have the tools to cope with the traumatic event. This is where a certified therapist or counselor can help.
A professional treatment program can help you resolve past trauma. Doing so also means understanding how you cope with stress and pain and how you will respond to any future adversity. A treatment program will give you the understanding and skills necessary to face trauma in the future and begin healing on your own. This is combined with building the necessary support system so that you never feel alone in your struggle.
Get Treatment for Mental Health at CeDAR
At CeDAR, we offer psychiatric care to help patients address traumatic events and find healing. We utilize a variety of treatment modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Patients who are dealing with a substance use disorder at the same time can also find recovery with a dual diagnosis treatment program. We offer trauma-informed care so that patients can address the root cause of their problems. Some of our other therapeutic interventions include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Individual therapy programs
- Group therapy programs
- Family therapy programs
If you want to break free from past trauma and begin living a happier, more fulfilling life, contact us at 720.848.3000. We would be more than happy to guide you through your recovery.
