Childhood Trauma and Addiction: Insights from Experts
When somebody is in the middle of addiction and they're actively using, they are one of the most stigmatized populations in our country.
How do early life experiences shape our struggles with addiction? This episode of the Landmark Recovery Podcast tackles this pressing question with host Zach Crouch. He welcomes Dr. Lorry Belhumeur, a seasoned psychologist and CEO of Western Youth Services, to discuss Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and their profound impact on addiction later in life. Dr.
Belhumeur sheds light on how past traumas can set the stage for future substance abuse and underscores the importance of trauma-informed care in the recovery process. Next, Zach chats with Melissa Atlas, Clinical Supervisor at Franciscan Outpatient Behavioral Health in Indiana. Melissa shares her hands-on experience with Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) and compares it to abstinence-only recovery programs.
She highlights the benefits and challenges of both approaches, offering valuable insights for those navigating their own recovery journeys or supporting loved ones. The episode doesn’t shy away from the stigma surrounding addiction, emphasizing the need for empathy and compassion. By understanding the roots of addiction, listeners are encouraged to approach the topic with a more informed and supportive mindset.
This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of addiction and recovery, especially through the lens of childhood trauma.