Comprehensive PTSD and Trauma Treatment at New Found Life | 12-Step & Clinical Healing

Individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) have a higher risk of experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related mental health issues. Treatment programs address all active conditions simultaneously to reduce the risk of relapse and build a foundation of hope for the future. The addiction recovery experts at New Found Life use the 12-Step philosophy and trauma treatment to address co-occurring PTSD. 

Overcoming PTSD and Trauma With Compassionate, Evidence-Based Treatment

The compassionate professionals at New Found Life use personalized treatment plans and a wide range of therapeutic modalities to treat dual diagnosis. We understand the significant impact PTSD and trauma may have on a person’s mind, body, and spirit. Our rehabilitation programs use peer and community engagement, trauma-informed care, 12-Step facilitation (TSF), psychotherapy, and other forms of support to help clients manage the effects of trauma and addiction. 

What Is PTSD?

PTSD commonly co-occurs with SUD. According to MedlinePlus, “Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder that some people develop after they experience or see a traumatic event.” Anyone can develop PTSD regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic background. If left untreated, the symptoms and side effects of PTSD may cause significant emotional and physical distress. 

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Everyone reacts to trauma differently, and the symptoms of PTSD exist along a spectrum. Some of the most common warning signs of PTSD include: 

  • Unwanted, intrusive memories of the trauma 
  • Flashbacks and other dissociative events
  • Recurring nightmares or other sleep disturbances 
  • Intense emotional or physical distress 
  • Hyperarousal and hypervigilance 
  • Strong startle response 
  • Feeling disconnected from others 
  • Difficulty concentrating 
  • Memory issues 
  • Persistent self-blame or other negative thoughts 
  • Avoiding reminders of the trauma 
  • Feeling emotionally numb or distant

 

The symptoms and warning signs of PTSD or untreated trauma may overlap with other disorders. PTSD must be diagnosed by a medical professional. We use clinical assessments to ensure clients receive an accurate diagnosis. 

Different Types of Trauma: Acute, Chronic, and Complex

Many events may cause trauma. Below are the three primary types of trauma: 

  • Acute Trauma: A single, isolated traumatic event 
  • Chronic Trauma: Traumatic events that happen repeatedly over a prolonged period of time 
  • Complex Trauma: Multiple forms of trauma taking place over a prolonged period of time 

We offer trauma-informed care to ensure clients receive the level of support they need to address their trauma. 

The Connection Between Trauma and Addiction

Trauma and addiction share many connections, including: 

  • The effects of unaddressed trauma may lead to people using alcohol or drugs to cope
  • Chronic substance abuse may contribute to traumatic experiences
  • Trauma and SUD may develop independently and worsen the effects of both conditions 

Many risk factors for trauma-related mental health disorders and SUD overlap. For example, individuals with a family history of substance abuse have a higher risk of experiencing PTSD and SUD. 

Why Specialized PTSD and Trauma Treatment Is Essential

Our treatment center specializes in providing comprehensive PTSD and trauma treatment. The therapists and counselors have decades of combined experience treating dual diagnoses involving trauma and PTSD. Tailored treatment plans ensure clients receive the best support and care to meet their needs. Clients and families learn to embrace help, hope, and happiness for a healthier, brighter future through trauma therapy and other support services. 

The Impact of Untreated Trauma on Mental Health

Trauma rewires the brain, affects behavior, causes physiological changes within the body, and affects how people interact with or relate to others. Untreated trauma can cause severe emotional distress and reduced quality of life. Often, the full effects of trauma remain unnoticed until a person receives treatment and learns to recognize the connections between past trauma and current behaviors or reactions. 

Breaking the Cycle: Addressing Trauma at Its Core

Some forms of trauma, including childhood trauma, form a cycle that may impact a person throughout their lifetime. In some cases, unaddressed trauma even moves through generations, causing significant distress for children and grandchildren. Treating the core issues related to trauma helps clients heal. Rehabilitation programs give clients and families the tools to stop the cycle of addiction and trauma. 

Our Holistic Approach to PTSD and Trauma Recovery

New Found Life uses 12-Step immersion and holistic healing to help clients heal from SUD and PTSD. We also utilize evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused treatment. Integrating holistic and evidence-based modalities increases the effectiveness of treatment programs and reduces the risk of relapse. 

Healing Through Mindfulness, Meditation, and Spiritual Reflection

Trauma recovery involves a spiritual aspect for many clients. Our holistic therapies allow clients to heal through mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual reflection. The 12-Step philosophy we use at New Found Life promotes resilience and spiritual wellness. Clients often benefit from engaging with peers in holistic activities and therapies. 

Not everyone feels comfortable with spiritual discussions and holistic therapies. We use comprehensive assessments and screening tools to develop highly personalized care plans that cater to the needs and preferences of each client. Healing the spirit does not require clients to believe in a higher power or embrace aspects of spirituality. We meet everyone where they are today and create a hopeful space where clients feel comfortable and supported. 

Family Support: Strengthening the Foundation for Long-Term Recovery

Social isolation is a common sign of trauma. People may withdraw from friends and family as a way to protect themselves from future trauma or to cope with the symptoms of PTSD. The lack of social support can worsen symptoms and side effects, causing extreme emotional distress. Family support during treatment gives clients a stronger support system and helps prepare families for ongoing recovery. 

Levels of Care for PTSD and Trauma Treatment

We offer the following levels of care for clients with co-occurring SUD and PTSD or other trauma-related mental health disorders: 

  • Residential treatment 
  • Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
  • Transitional living 

Our programs offer clients a safe, structured, and healing environment for addiction recovery. The comprehensive support and flexibility of outpatient or transitional living programs build resilience and independence. Our compassionate care team provides clients with the tools to overcome trauma and challenges in recovery.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects how people relate to others and think about themselves. Rehabilitation programs provide treatment for PTSD and trauma-related mental health disorders. New Found Life uses evidence-based and holistic therapies to help clients heal from substance abuse and the effects of trauma. Trauma therapy provides clients with the tools to manage their condition effectively while preparing them for a more hopeful future. Dual diagnosis treatment prioritizes tailored therapy sessions and essential skill development to prepare clients for lasting sobriety and long-term positive mental health. Clients benefit from healing alongside peers with similar life experiences. To learn more about our programs and trauma-informed care, call our office today at (562) 434-4060.