We all know that experiencing trauma can have a devastating impact on your life.

You retreat inward and are constantly on guard to protect yourself from further harm.

Researchers are learning more about why this happens. A large study conducted by the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESAR) has found some interesting results. Mainly, that behavioral changes caused by the initial trauma can make it much more likely for victims to develop depression.

Thus, there is a connection between trauma and depression. Exactly how does it come about?

Studying Trauma and Depression

The researchers used data sets from two larger surveys to create two separate groups. One group had gone through a traumatic experience without reporting depression. The second group had developed what would be considered post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What they found was that 9% of people in the first group who had “just” experienced trauma had also developed depression. And for those diagnosed with PTSD, 23% of that group had also developed depression.

So, why exactly did these groups, especially the PTSD group, develop depression?

An Absence of Positive Influences

What the researchers discovered is that PTSD makes it more difficult for people to access positive experiences and influences. These are the things that help to keep you grounded and are also fulfilling.

For example, PTSD makes it harder with accessing communities that you identify with.  This is true whether they are spiritual, recreational, or professional. You stop doing things that you once enjoyed because you are trying to avoid potential triggers.

Thus, because of trauma and depression, you may struggle to find positive coping mechanisms that can actually help you heal. Sadly, that also means you’re likely to turn to negative strategies.

The Influence of Drugs and Alcohol

As your options for positively coping with trauma and depression grows smaller, you may resort to other means of coping. Means that are anything but good for you and only lead to more problems.

Because you have fewer choices for having a healthy distraction or to find pleasure, you may make increasing use of drugs and alcohol. In fact, you likely find them helpful in the moment, to escape from the troubling thoughts that you are holding onto stemming from your trauma.

Using Behavioral Activation

Behavioral activation is one solution to trauma and depression exacerbated by substance use. It helps because it accesses your values when developing a treatment plan. And thus, these plans are more effective because they are tailored-made for your needs.

For example, you might not have the motivation to quit alcohol for your own sake. However, if you have a child, they can be the motivational factor you need to stay sober. That’s because even though you may enjoy drinking, you still want to be a good role model and parent for your child. Positive behavioral changes are activated.

Getting Help for Trauma and Depression

There is definitely a connection between trauma and depression. Experiencing trauma makes you more prone to developing depression as you begin to lose the pillars and systems that gave you strength. Replacing those supports with drugs and alcohol only makes the problem worse.

If you are struggling with trauma and depression, then you need professional help. Talk to an experienced therapist who understands these issues and how substance abuse influences the problem. They can work with you to develop a treatment plan that is relevant for you.

Also, by seeing a therapist you can begin to build up your reserve of positive influences to cope with your trauma and depression. That’s because your therapist won’t judge you, but rather listen to your thoughts and concerns. It’s a great first step towards healing.

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If you would like to know more about my approach to depression treatment, please click HERE or give me a call. By working with me, you can begin to turn the page on your problem and recover from both trauma and depression.