The Role of Trauma in Teen and Young Adult Substance Use
When it comes to teen and young adult substance use, many people focus only on the behavior: the vaping, the drinking, the pills, the weed. But what if those choices aren’t the whole story? What if substance use is often a symptom, not the root cause?
For many adolescents and young adults, substance use is closely connected to unresolved trauma. Understanding that connection is key—not just to stopping the use, but to helping young people truly heal.
What Counts as Trauma? -
When we hear the word “trauma,” we often think of major, life-altering events—abuse, accidents, natural disasters. And yes, those experiences matter. But trauma also includes:
Ongoing emotional neglect or criticism
Bullying or social exclusion
Witnessing violence at home or in the community
Divorce or parental conflict
Medical trauma or chronic illness
Identity-based discrimination (e.g., racism, homophobia, transphobia)
What matters most is not just what happened, but how the nervous system responded. Trauma leaves a lasting imprint on the body and brain, especially in young people whose emotional regulation skills are still developing.
How Trauma and Substance Use Are Connected -
When someone experiences trauma, it can dysregulate the nervous system—creating chronic stress, anxiety, numbness, or emotional overwhelm. Substances often become a coping mechanism. Here’s how the cycle works:
Unresolved trauma → anxiety, depression, hypervigilance, shame
Substance use → temporary relief from distressing thoughts or feelings
Dependence or addiction → increasing use to maintain that relief
Consequences of use → more shame, disconnection, and trauma
Substances become a way to feel better or to feel nothing at all—both of which can be incredibly appealing to someone who’s hurting.
Why This Matters in Treatment -
If we treat substance use without acknowledging trauma, we miss the bigger picture. That’s why effective adolescent and young adult substance use treatment must also include:
Trauma-informed care: Creating emotional safety in therapy and avoiding re-traumatization
Somatic approaches: Helping the body release stored trauma (e.g., mindfulness, movement, grounding)
Psychoeducation: Teaching young people why they feel the way they do
Coping skills: Offering healthier tools to manage emotions, triggers, and relationships
At our group practice, we see firsthand how powerful this kind of integrated approach can be. When young people feel seen, validated, and supported—not judged—they begin to rebuild trust with themselves and others.
What Parents and Caregivers Should Know -
If your child is using substances and you suspect trauma may be involved:
Don’t jump to punishment—get curious.
Ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think your use is helping you cope with?”
Focus on connection before correction. A safe, supportive relationship is often the first step toward change.
Seek out trauma-informed professionals who can guide the healing process.
You’re Not Alone -
Whether you’re a teen who’s trying to numb out painful memories, or a parent wondering how to help your child, know this: healing is absolutely possible.
Substance use doesn’t define a person. It's often just the loudest signal that something deeper needs attention. When we listen with compassion, we open the door to real, lasting change.
