trauma-informed care Archives - Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

How Trauma Influences Addiction

Posted on July 13, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

Trauma can have a profound impact on mental health, even if the symptoms are not apparent for years. Trauma and addiction are often related. However, many addiction treatment programs don’t take past trauma into account. That’s why, if you’re looking into addiction treatment programs, you should look for one that offers trauma-informed care. Addiction and trauma recovery can happen at the same time when trauma is addressed in a safe, supportive way. Trauma-informed care includes therapies and approaches that are sensitive to the impact of prior traumatic experiences and seek to create a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we will enroll you in a trauma-informed care program that will treat the mental aspect of the trauma along with your addiction treatment. Call 833.448.0127 today for more on trauma-informed care in Colorado.

How Does Past Trauma Affect Addiction?

When someone experiences a traumatic event, it affects the brain in multiple areas. If the trauma happens at an early age, it can affect brain development as the trauma can suppress growth in some regions of the brain. Some trauma treatment programs can help cope with a current trauma, but often this is ignored or covered up by other mental issues, like substance addiction.

There are three areas of the brain that trauma can affect:

The hippocampus – This part of the brain is important for forming memories, and it can be suppressed after experiencing trauma.
The amygdala – This area of the brain is responsible for fight-or-flight responses, and trauma can cause it to become overactive.
The prefrontal cortex – This part helps with decision making, and trauma can make it harder to think clearly.

When you experience a traumatic event, your brain goes into a hyperactive state that suppresses your memory and impulse control. Many people enter a state of shock and cannot react normally, often freezing up and seemingly unable to speak. They are overwhelmed by the event and trying to cope.

Types of Trauma

Trauma can take many forms, from abuse of any kind to the death of a loved one. It can be caused by physical, emotional, or sexual violence; natural disasters; or even witnessing a traumatic event. It’s also possible to experience trauma through indirect means, like hearing about a loved one’s death or bearing witness to a traumatic event without directly experiencing it.

Any kind of trauma can have an effect on mental health and, as a result, addiction. Trauma can lead to feelings of fear and helplessness that drive a person to use drugs or alcohol to cope with the emotions associated with the trauma. If not addressed, this can lead to addiction and other mental health issues. Addiction develops as a result of the brain’s attempt to cope with the impact of trauma, and it can form a vicious cycle.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

In a trauma-informed care program, clients will work with a team of professionals to address the issues caused by trauma. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual and focus on addressing the underlying issues rather than just the addiction. The goal of trauma-informed care is to create a safe, supportive environment and guide clients through the healing process.

Therapies used in a trauma-informed care program can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and even family therapy. These therapies will help clients understand their trauma, address any triggers, and learn coping skills to manage symptoms.

In a trauma-informed care program, you will see the impact trauma can have on addiction treatment and the need to focus on more than just one area of concern. With time, the participant will begin to feel the positive effects of a comprehensive treatment.

When you first come in and discuss your addiction and trauma treatment, your therapist will sit down with you and go over the best programs to treat your mental health so you can get over your past trauma and learn to control your addiction.

Find the Right Trauma-Informed Care for You at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand how trauma can affect your addiction and will work with you or your loved ones in their addiction recovery. We provide a safe and encouraging environment that considers the difficulties traumatic events can have on addiction and where you will feel comfortable discussing the trauma driving your addiction.

If you or someone you know is suffering from trauma-related addiction, please call 833.448.0127 or reach out to our team online today and schedule an appointment with one of our therapists.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

Posted on May 31, 2023August 26, 2024 by cmarnew

When you go to the doctor, the focus is often on figuring out what’s wrong. While your doctor only wants to help, taking a clinical approach that seems to ignore what may be happening beneath your exterior can feel impersonal. Those who have experienced trauma can face challenges with their mental health. Trauma-informed care focuses less on fixing the immediate problem and more on understanding everything that led to your current issues. It’s a concept that informs the way everyone at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery helps patients. If you’re looking for trauma-informed care in Colorado, contact us today at 833.448.0127 or fill out our online form.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

When people experience trauma because of neglect, abuse, discrimination, violence, and other adverse experiences, they often turn to risky behavior like drug and alcohol abuse. Someone who comes into the ER because of an opioid overdose may have started using the drugs to get away from memories associated with the experience of trauma.

Using a trauma-informed care approach to individuals seeking treatment for mental health or substance use disorders helps doctors, addiction specialists, and other medical professionals understand more about the experiences that led to a patient’s current state. Trauma therapy makes a big difference to a person when someone tries to understand what happened to them. Some important tenets of trauma-informed care include:

Understanding how much trauma impacts people
Looking at the way trauma affects a person’s ability to achieve recovery
Recognizing signs of trauma in patients and those close to them

Learn how to avoid creating situations that might inadvertently remind patients of past trauma

Understanding the role of resiliency in helping patients move forward

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our doctors and specialists take a trauma-informed care approach while providing treatments for addiction and mental health disorders. We believe that understanding how past experiences have impacted someone’s life is essential to creating an effective treatment plan for recovery.

How Can Trauma-Informed Care Help with Addiction?

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery believes that taking a trauma-informed approach in all aspects of treatment helps our patients achieve better outcomes. Addiction and mental health disorders are complex issues that can’t be handled with a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. By taking the time to understand what patients are going through, we can develop more effective approaches to addiction and mental health care.

The main principles that drive trauma-informed care include the following:

Empowering patients – We focus on a person’s strengths and use them to help them progress through treatment
Giving patients choices – Patients respond more positively when they feel they have a choice when it comes to their treatment
Collaborating with patients – Everyone at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery works with the patient and their family to obtain the best outcome
Making patients feel safe – We want patients to feel secure in their environment when they come to Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery for treatment
Earning the trust of patients – Patients can expect complete transparency and clarity when it comes to the treatments offered at our facility and the kind of care they can expect

It’s important to note, though, that trauma-informed care is not a one-time solution. It’s an ongoing process of understanding and support to help heal trauma.

What Are the Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care?

We’ve found that trauma-informed care benefits both patients and the staff at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery. Those who come to us for help can learn how to rebuild fractured relationships or focus on building new ones with people supportive of a patient’s recovery journey. Trauma therapy is also a chance for you to have a voice regarding getting help for issues driving your addiction or mental health crisis.

Trauma-informed care gives staff the chance to understand our patients’ issues on a deeper level. That helps build trust both ways and makes us more empathetic to the challenges our patients go through as they work to improve their long-term physical, mental, and emotional health.

Some other benefits of trauma-informed care include:

Being able to recognize and respond appropriately to signs of trauma while addressing underlying issues related to addiction or mental health disorders
Creating a safe and supportive environment for patients to feel comfortable with the help they’re getting
Offering different approaches to treatment that can address a wide range of symptoms

Trauma-informed care is the gold standard in modern addiction and mental health treatment. Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery is proud to offer this approach to all of our patients.

Experience Trauma-Informed Care at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery maintains a safe, therapeutic environment for patients looking for help with mental health or addiction issues. Treatments and programs offered at our facility include:

Contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at [Direct] if you want to learn more about how we can become your partner in overcoming problems that may be holding you back in life.

What Does Trauma-Informed Mean and Is It for You?

Posted on December 7, 2022 by cmarnew

When it comes to addiction treatment, what does “trauma-informed” mean? Trauma-informed care is an approach that acknowledges the impact of trauma on individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. It takes into consideration how a person’s history of trauma has shaped their view of life, relationships, and the world around them. This approach creates a safe and secure environment that allows individuals to engage in healing from the trauma that has led to, or been caused by, their addiction.

On the journey to recovery, working through past trauma with the help of a licensed professional is essential to overall well-being. Trauma-informed care helps individuals recognize what triggers their trauma, what coping mechanisms they can use to deal with it, and how to create meaningful relationships that are supportive and safe.

Understanding Trauma and Substance Use Disorders

How do trauma and addiction connect? For many of those who suffer from addiction, it could be that trauma was the root cause of their substance abuse. Traumatic experiences can lead to self-medication and unhealthy coping mechanisms. These experiences can include:

Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
Violent crime
Neglect
Natural disasters

While there is a pervasive myth that only combat veterans struggle with issues stemming from past trauma, anyone who has been through a traumatic event can be at risk for developing a substance use disorder after turning to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping. Trauma-informed care is a holistic approach to addiction recovery that addresses the underlying mental health issues and trauma that often lead to substance abuse.

Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-informed care helps individuals struggling with addiction in several ways. It can reduce relapse rates, provide support for physical and mental health, increase self-esteem, and ultimately improve outcomes for those in recovery.

One of the most beneficial aspects of trauma-informed care is that it focuses on creating a safe environment where individuals can openly talk about their experiences without fear or judgment. The approach also helps those in recovery build resilience and gives them back control over their own lives.

What Does Trauma-Informed Care Look Like in Practice?

The primary way to incorporate trauma-informed care in addiction treatment is by having compassionate and caring therapists who are knowledgeable about trauma and its impact. These professionals will create a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to talk about what they’ve been through.

There’s an emphasis on not re-traumatizing individuals, so the therapist will be in tune with what topics or conversations might bring up difficult memories or feelings. By creating an environment of trust and safety, individuals in recovery can find their own ways to work through trauma and address the root causes of their addiction.

However, approaches other than therapy can incorporate a trauma-informed approach. Medication-assisted treatment, for example, can be used to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms related to addiction. How is this trauma-informed? Medication-assisted treatment can give individuals control over what they’re putting into their body, which can help reduce feelings of powerlessness.

Find Effective Trauma-Informed Care at Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we understand what trauma-informed care can do for individuals in recovery. Our experienced team of professionals will provide a safe, compassionate environment where those in our care can begin their journey to wellness. In addition to therapy, we offer medication-assisted treatment and other holistic approaches to help individuals in recovery develop their own coping mechanisms.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, contact Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery at 833.448.0127 or reach out online for more information about what trauma-informed care can do for you.

Why Is Trauma Informed Care Important?

Posted on October 3, 2022 by cmarnew

Why is trauma-informed care important for addiction recovery? Men and women who experience past or recent trauma can struggle with their feelings which can lead to depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction if left untreated. In some cases, the patient will have a co-occurring condition of addiction and other mental health concerns. Trauma-informed care provides those in recovery with a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses their feelings created by a single or reoccurring traumatic event and any depression or addiction symptoms related to it.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we work with individuals from all walks of life who are coping with trauma and any addiction or other mental health concerns. We take the time to connect with each patient to create an atmosphere of trust and open communication. In addition, we offer medication-assisted treatment to minimize any symptoms that are causing a disruption to their recovery. Continue reading to learn why is trauma-informed care important, then call 833.448.0127 or fill out our online form today to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff.

Why Is Trauma-Informed Care Important?

A traumatic event is anything that causes significant emotional or mental distress. It can affect children, teens, and adults and impact their ability to lead normal, healthy lives. When trauma happens, some people can experience painful feelings, memories, or nightmares that they are unable to handle without help. In some cases, patients may experience flashbacks which make it seem like the trauma is happening again.

Common types of traumatic events include:

Emotional or physical abuse by a parent or loved one
Car accidents
Bullying
COVID-19
Natural disaster
Sexual assault
Current affairs
Death of a parent or loved one

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we work closely with each patient to understand their condition and create a beneficial treatment program. We will go over each step of the recovery journey with you and answer any questions you have about what trauma-informed care is and how what types of treatments are available.

The Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-informed care is an essential treatment program for those who have experienced a traumatic event that impacts their mental health. It teaches them to face their trauma in a safe environment and discover the power within them to make positive changes.

Just some of the benefits of trauma-informed care include:

Therapists work one-on-one with each patient to build trust and rapport while helping them feel safe. They talk through the trauma while developing coping skills for managing their symptoms and triggers.
Therapists work with them in private to teach them how to stop negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive thoughts about themselves and the world around them.
Patients will have an opportunity to bond with their peers during group therapy as they practice coping skills and talk about their struggles and triumphs. They listen to peer feedback and gain new perspectives on how trauma affects all people, no matter where they come from.
Patients will also participate in family therapy to help parents, siblings, and spouses. They learn all about how the trauma is impacting the entire family and how to make healthy changes at home to support their recovery.

Why is trauma-informed care important? If any past or recent trauma is not properly addressed, it can negatively impact your mental health and create worsening depression, anxiety, and potentially death by suicide or accidental overdose.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery: Providing Trauma-Informed Care for Addiction Recovery

What is trauma-informed care? Trauma-informed care helps those in recovery cope with past or recent traumas in a safe and encouraging environment. At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we will answer all of your questions about your treatment program and what to expect during the program. If you or a loved one is struggling with their mental health due to a traumatic event, call 833.448.0127 today for more information about our addiction treatment center.

How Trauma-Informed Care Could Be the Answer

Posted on July 4, 2022 by cmarnew

Trauma is the result of a single or ongoing event that causes significant stress to the point that it can hinder the emotional development of children and adults. A traumatic event can be anything from a car accident, family conflicts, wartime, or social pressure to fit in. Trauma-informed care is the best way to treat addiction and other types of mental health illnesses that are directly related to the trauma that is affecting your health and happiness.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we provide men and women from all walks of life with trauma-informed care at our private outpatient treatment center. We offer a wide range of behavioral therapies and medication-assisted treatment to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings and allow for true healing to begin. Continue reading to learn how trauma-informed care can benefit your recovery. When you are ready to make a positive change in your life, call 833.448.0127 to speak with our friendly staff.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-informed care is a type of therapy that addresses a single or multiple traumatic events that are causing emotional harm. It helps patients process their feelings in a healthy way instead of turning to drugs and alcohol for temporary relief. If left untreated, trauma can lead to worsening depression, PTSD, and addiction and put them at extreme risk of self-harm or suicide.

The three types of trauma that can affect men and women include:

Acute – a single traumatic event, such as a car accident, injury, or death of a loved one.
Chronic – Repeated traumatic events such as domestic violence, school bullying, or emotional abuse from a parent, sibling, or spouse.
Complex – This type of trauma involves varied and multiple traumatic events over an extended period of time. Examples of complex trauma include incest, kidnapping, or grooming.

At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, we help men and women who have experienced a traumatic event. Our therapists have experience working with people from all backgrounds and types of trauma and can teach them how to process their feelings in a healthy manner.

The Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care

There are many benefits of participating in trauma-informed care for patients whose life is fractured by a traumatic event. They learn how to talk about their feelings effectively while developing new skills that promote healthy thoughts and behaviors.

Just some of the benefits of trauma-informed care include:

Rediscover their power to change – Trauma makes people feel powerless, which is one main reason why they turn to drugs and alcohol instead of asking for help and appearing weak. Trauma-informed care works to remind patients of the power they have to change their thoughts and how they view the world around them.
A safe space to confront their trauma – Patients work with therapists in a safe and private space where they can talk about their feelings without judgment. Therapists work with patients in group and one-on-one therapy to develop healthy coping skills.
Prevention of re-traumatization – Trauma-informed care helps patients learn to stand up for themselves and reduce the risk of putting themselves in the same situation that led to the traumatic event.

Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery: Your Best Choice for Trauma-Informed Care

What is trauma-informed care, and is it right for you? At Colorado Medication Assisted Recovery, our certified behavioral therapists will diagnose your condition and create a custom treatment program based on the traumatic event and severity of the addiction. Patients learn to confront and process their emotions without causing any negative feelings or emotions contributing to substance abuse.

When you are ready to regain control of your life, call 833.448.0127 or fill out our online form today for more information about our outpatient addiction treatment center.