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Wellbeing Lothian NHS Lothian | Our Services
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Substance Use following Trauma

Making Sense of Trauma – 6
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Substance Use following Trauma

Some people increase their use of alcohol or substances following a trauma. This is often an attempt to block out painful memories, thoughts or feelings related to the trauma.

There’s nothing wrong with responsible drinking, but if your use of alcohol or drugs has changed as a result of your traumatic experience, it can slow down your recovery and cause problems of its own.

Related Resources

  • Making Sense of Traumatic EventsMaking Sense of Traumatic Events
    If you have experienced a traumatic event, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, trauma is prevalent in our society.  An estimated 1 in 5 adults have experienced physical or sexual abuse during childhood.
  • Common Emotional Reactions to TraumaCommon Emotional Reactions to Trauma
    It’s common to experience a range of different emotions following a trauma event.
  • Do I Have a Problem?
    Many people who have a problem with alcohol and drugs will try to cover it up. Problems are not always visible, but there are signs, and different ways of approaching recovery.
  • Alcohol and Drug Misuse
    Most people use alcohol and other drugs for their benefits - perceived or experienced - not for the potential harm they may cause. This applies to both legal and illegal substances, including drugs that are prescribed. No one takes a drug to feel worse. It’s important to remember that the vast majority of people who drink alcohol and/or use legal or illegal drugs do not become dependent on any of these substances.
landscape of Lothian area
landscape of Lothian area
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We want to help you make changes in your own lives and point you in a direction to start doing so. This is Wellbeing Lothian’s aim.

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