Trauma, Addiction, and Dual Diagnosis: Healing the Whole Person

 Trauma changes the brain. Addiction can begin as a survival strategy. And when mental health struggles and substance use disorders collide, recovery becomes more complicated — but no less possible.

In this episode, I explore the reality of co-occurring disorders, why they are so common, and how our treatment systems often leave people without the integrated care they deserve. You’ll hear how trauma reshapes the brain, why substances can feel like relief at first, and how dual diagnosis creates a cycle that is difficult — but not impossible — to break.

I’ll share research, a fictional story to bring these ideas to life, and practical tools for grounding, coping, and moving forward. Above all, you’ll be reminded that struggling with co-occurring disorders is not a personal failure — it’s a reflection of systemic challenges — and recovery is about healing the whole person.

Because Recovery is REAL — Restoring Every Aspect of Life.