Understanding the impact of trauma and substance use on the brain is crucial in addressing mental health disorders. Trauma can affect various areas of the brain, including the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, both involved in emotional regulation and decision-making. Similarly, substance use can also alter brain regions such as the nucleus accumbens and hippocampus, influencing reward processing and memory. Moreover, avoidance behaviors play a significant role in mental health disorders, serving as coping mechanisms to evade distressing stimuli. The intersection of avoidance with trauma and substance use further complicates these conditions, exacerbating symptoms and hindering recovery. Additionally, the connection between brain regions affected by trauma and substance use contributes to heightened avoidance tendencies, perpetuating a cycle of avoidance and exacerbating mental health challenges. By comprehensively understanding these dynamics, interventions can be tailored to address the complex interplay between trauma, substance use, and avoidance behaviors, promoting effective treatment and recovery strategies.

This course has been approved by HMP Global, LLC, as a NAADAC Approved Education Provider, for educational credits. NAADAC Provider #182840. HMP Education is responsible for all aspects of the programming.

Note: other learners may download a certificate as proof of participation in the activity.