After witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event, it can be difficult for some men to form healthy relationships. Unaddressed trauma can manifest in various ways. Thus, one must find a safe space to share their stories about their past experiences. Doing so can help individuals cope with trauma without self-medicating with drugs, alcohol, or self-destructive behaviors. Although it can be difficult for some men to navigate the challenges associated with past trauma, getting involved with the community can help some men cope with addiction and their mental health.
The Negative Effects of Trauma
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a traumatic event may involve physical or emotional harm that may be perceived as life-threatening. The effects of trauma can leave lasting effects on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. A dangerous occurrence can negatively impact one’s spiritual and social well-being. There is a strong link between substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Trauma has no boundaries. Anyone of any age, gender, race, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, or ethnicity may experience some form of trauma in their lives. Addressing trauma is a critical part of the healing and recovery process as prolonged trauma may lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Negative effects of trauma might include:
- Recurring flashbacks
- Social withdrawal and disinterest in others
- Night terrors
- Severe physical or emotional distress
- Increased rage and outbursts
- Persistent feelings of anger and shame
- Anxiety and or depression
Risk Factors for Male Trauma
Knowing trauma can affect all genders, some males experience unwanted trauma in different areas of their life. Their workplace such as the police force, the military, paramedics, emergency care settings, and fire safety may put one at risk for witnessing or experiencing a dangerous event. Different types of trauma put one at an increased risk of developing and facing challenges with PTSD. For example, some men are more prone to face challenges with trauma that is typically derived from:
- The military combat or war
- Witnessing the tragic death of a loved one
- Physical assault
- Witnessing a severe injury of a loved one
- Surviving a life-threatening accident
- Being threatened with a weapon
The Importance of Community Support to Cope With Trauma
Trauma left unaddressed may lead to engaging in self-destructive practices. A lack of emotional support can often lead one down the path to pick up poor habits to nurse their condition. Some men may perform self-harm, binge eat, gamble, misuse harmful substances, engage in risky behaviors, or more.
Although professional care is often advised, community support is imperative for a positive outcome. Social support is a major component that works to help those facing challenges with trauma successfully maintain mental stability, cope with their condition, and overcome the negative effects of trauma. Spending time with like-minded individuals who are on a similar path to recovery can relieve one from their depressive state related to social isolation.
The Value of Participating in Community Events to Cope With Trauma
Although treatment has been completed, not everyone is confident to move forward into early recovery. Trauma can negatively impact several different aspects of an individual life. For example, following treatment, the effects of trauma can still interfere with an individual’s ability to maintain healthy relationships, a strong work performance, or steady academic progress. Some men who participate in community events gain great benefit in their recovery process.
Even though an individual may have learned effective strategies to cope with their condition in past treatment, unwanted triggers may still be problematic. Not everyone has a comfortable environment to return to after treatment. Moving forward with a recovery coach can make a world of difference. Working with a recovery coach can also give one access to additional support services, community events, new and healthy connections, and future opportunities for a fresh start.
Joining the Band of Brothers Program at Renaissance Ranch to Cope With Trauma
Some men are hesitant to move forward with ongoing care as it may be perceived as weak by others. It is important to understand that their personal needs come before negative judgment from others. Some men may have difficulty coping with negative stigma and hurtful stereotypes but it can be helpful if one surrounds themselves with peer support. Choosing to move forward with our sober community at Renaissance Ranch’s Band of Brothers Program can be a great way to learn new coping strategies with those who are also managing their mental health and addiction-related issues.
Managing past trauma alone can feel deeply isolating. Renaissance Ranch’s treatment facility understands that recovery is a lifelong process. It is not a simple destination. Therefore, support for their patients does not stop when they complete their treatment plan. Their alumni program is a tight-knit group of people that consists of weekly meetings, alumni events, and annual celebrations. Connections built in an alumni program can fulfill lifelong relationships for good influence.
Men, who have gone through our program are constantly connecting with the newer members of the program and showing them that there is hope in recovery. Connection is everything, so we spare no time or expense to keep guys connected, day in and day out with other men who know what it’s like to struggle with alcoholism and addiction. In addition to weekly meetups, the Band of Brothers also organizes a variety of extracurricular activities that help promote the growth and foundation of the men we treat. These extracurricular activities could include camping trips, marathons, sporting events, study groups, and so much more! Call Renaissance Ranch at (801) 308-8898 to get involved with our sober community.