Trauma is a universal experience of people in treatment and recovery for substance use and mental disorders. Trauma is a widespread, harmful and costly public health problem. Trauma occurs as a result of violence, abuse, neglect, disaster, war, and other emotionally destructive experiences. Similar to subtsance use and mental disorders, trauma can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, economics, race, ethinicity, geography, disability, or sexual orientation. People can overcome trauma experiences with appropriate support and intervention; but left untreated, trauma significantly increases the risk of substance use and/or mental disorders, chronic physical diseases, and early death. The effects of trauma place a heavy burden on individuals, families, and communities and create challenges for all public institutions, jails, prisons, and service systems. This show will examine the need to address trauma in the delivery of substance use and/or mental disorders treament and recovery services, how to screen and identify individuals with trauma-related problems, and provide suggested inventions and support services. Discussion will include what interventions work, how to collaborate, and how to provide a full range of support services to ensure a full and sustained recovery.
