The groundbreaking ACEs study revealed childhood trauma triples addiction risk in adulthood. Four or more adverse experiences increase substance abuse likelihood 7x for alcohol, 5x for drugs. Trauma rewires developing brains, creating vulnerability through altered stress response and self-medication patterns. But healing is possible through neuroplasticity and trauma-informed treatment.

EMDR therapy addresses the trauma underneath addiction that traditional treatment often misses. By processing traumatic memories through bilateral stimulation, EMDR reduces their emotional charge and craving-inducing power. Research shows 90% of people seeking addiction treatment have trauma history. This evidence-based approach helps heal root causes, not just symptoms, for lasting recovery.