ABSTRACT
A history of trauma exposure is almost universal among clients of Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Services. Consequently, rates of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions are elevated in this population. Despite this, the possible relevance of trauma to substance use, and the potential impact of trauma upon treatment, go largely unrecognised in this sector. In this chapter, the extent of trauma exposure and PTSD among people with AOD use disorders is outlined, and the nature of the relationship between these conditions is discussed. This is followed by an examination of the issues surrounding the implementation in this area of a trauma-informed approach, and a brief overview of the research regarding trauma-focused treatment options for clients with AOD use disorders.
