AOD and Trauma Flashcards
(22 cards)
What percentage of people in AOD services have experienced trauma?
Up to 90% of people in AOD services have experienced trauma.
What percentage of individuals in AOD services may have PTSD?
Two-thirds may have PTSD, often undiagnosed and untreated.
How are trauma and substance use related?
Trauma and substance use are interdependent, leading to more severe symptoms and poorer outcomes.
What are the impacts of comorbidity in AOD and trauma?
Higher relapse risk, suicide attempts, and psychiatric disorders.
What systemic issues do clients face in AOD services?
Clients fall through gaps: AOD services view trauma as a mental health issue, and vice versa.
What is the definition of trauma?
Trauma = overwhelming stress that threatens safety.
What are the types of trauma?
Type 1: Single event (e.g., assault, accident).
Type 2: Complex, prolonged (e.g., childhood abuse).
‘Little t’ traumas: Cumulative stress (e.g., bullying, job loss).
How does trauma affect the brain?
Trauma affects the brain’s stress response, reward pathways, and emotion regulation.
What is the ACE Study?
ACE Study: More adverse childhood events = higher risk for AOD use and mental illness.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
PTSD: Intrusions, avoidance, negative mood, arousal changes.
What additional symptoms are associated with CPTSD?
CPTSD: Plus emotional dysregulation, negative self-beliefs, relational issues.
Which populations are at risk for trauma and AOD issues?
First Nations, LGBTIQ+, neurodiverse people, youth, women, and those in high-risk professions.
Why are neurodiverse people particularly vulnerable?
Neurodiverse people are especially vulnerable to trauma and PTSD.
What is the trauma–AOD feedback loop?
Trauma → AOD use to self-regulate → withdrawal → worsened PTSD → continued use.
What are the four key theories of the trauma-AOD feedback loop?
Self-regulation hypothesis, High-risk lifestyle, Susceptibility (biological/emotional), Common factors (genetics, impulsivity).
What is the focus of Trauma-Informed Care (TIC)?
‘What happened to you?’ not ‘What’s wrong with you?’
What are the key principles of Trauma-Informed Care?
Safety, Trustworthiness, Choice, Collaboration, Empowerment, Cultural sensitivity & peer support.
What are the stages of the Trauma-Focused Treatment Model?
Safety & Stabilisation – Psychoeducation, emotional regulation.
Trauma Processing – Psychological therapies (e.g., EMDR, CBT).
Integration & Reconnection – Building life skills, independence.
What barriers do clients face due to past trauma?
Past trauma can make people distrustful, avoidant, or unresponsive to services.
What are effective recovery strategies?
Build emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, and self-compassion. Engage in meaningful roles and community support.
What risks do clinicians face regarding trauma?
Clinicians are at risk of burnout and secondary trauma.
What is crucial for clinician support?
Self-care, training, and organisational support are crucial.
