Coming out is a personal decision, and it’s different for everyone. Whether you’re coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+)—or if you’re exploring your options and want to come out in your way—there are some essential tips to keep in mind. You may want to keep this advice in mind, especially if…
Anxiety attacks can be frightening. Some people who experience an anxiety attack even worry that they are having a medical crisis and seek treatment at an emergency room. Despite how severe the symptoms might feel, anxiety attacks are not dangerous and will not hurt you. If you know some tips and techniques to calm an…
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) are often experienced at the same time. The link between PTSD and addiction can be strong, making it complicated to treat clients who are dealing with both disorders. However, our understanding of the best ways to help people experiencing the aftermath of trauma and struggling with…
Separation anxiety is a normal developmental stage for very young children. In some children, it becomes so disruptive that treatment is required. However, many people do not realize that adults can also suffer from separation anxiety. There are many types of anxiety, not all of which are severe enough to require professional treatment. Still, when…
The relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol abuse is well-established. According to the National Center for PTSD, up to three-quarters of people who survive abuse or a violent, traumatic experience report problems with drinking. Healing from trauma can be challenging enough, but when alcohol is added into the mix, things can get even…
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, has a stereotype of being a diagnosis mainly given to war veterans. But there are many women who have experienced trauma that causes symptoms of PTSD just as if they have been through war. In a trauma therapy program, women can benefit from feeling safe, respected, and honored in telling…
Trauma, or harmful experiences that leave a lingering impact on people’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being, has a complicated relationship with substance abuse. A strong trauma therapy program for addiction recovery will treat the whole individual—addressing not only their substance use but its causes and effects. Symptoms and Consequences of Trauma Many different events can…
It’s said that nearly 70% of Americans have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives. Trauma can touch anyone, regardless of background, financial status, or age. For those processing traumas alone, the result can often be an overwhelming sense of helplessness that is crippling and, if left untreated, dangerous. If you or someone…
Greater Boston Addiction Centers during the month of June is part of a nationwide endeavor to raise awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, with the 27th of the month being highlighted as PTSD awareness day. PTSD affects 9 million people in the United States, a large number of people who desperately need treatment for…
What happens to us as children often shapes our personalities as adults. When those influences are negative, they can have outsized impacts on our actions, including turning to substance abuse. Researchers have long been curious about the links between childhood trauma and addiction. It does seem that many individuals who survived chaos during their childhood…