Recovery Is Not Immune to Trauma: Breaking the Cycle with STAR Network and TAR Anon

Recovery Is Not Immune to Trauma: Breaking the Cycle with STAR Network and TAR Anon 

By Dr. James Huysman Founder & ED of STAR Network 

We need more than a month to raise awareness about addiction, trauma, and recovery. 

Every September, National Recovery Month brings attention to the struggles and triumphs of those recovering from substance abuse and behavioral health disorders. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), it offers valuable resources for those on the journey to healing. But the reality is that recovery doesn’t fit neatly into a single month. For many, it’s a lifelong process, and one that is deeply intertwined with trauma. 

The Link Between Trauma and Addiction 

Trauma is one of the most overlooked and yet one of the most powerful drivers of addiction and behavioral health struggles. The National Recovery Month Toolkit (NRMT) identifies trauma survivors as a key population affected by substance use, stating: 

“Trauma can be defined as an emotional response to an event or set of circumstances that is physically or emotionally harmful or life-threatening, and that has lasting negative effects on a person’s mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being.” 

Trauma doesn’t discriminate. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities, and its impact can be devastating: 

• 61% of men and 51% of women report experiencing at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. 

• Approximately two-thirds of Americans report having gone through at least one personal trauma before age 18. 

• One in four children (25%) have been exposed to family violence. 

These experiences – whether involving abuse, neglect, violence, war, or the stress of caregiving – leave lasting scars. Many survivors turn to alcohol, drugs, or other destructive coping mechanisms in an attempt to numb the pain. 

Healing Requires More Than Just Sobriety 

Recovery isn’t just about quitting substances. It’s about addressing the root cause – the trauma that often fuels the addiction in the first place. Ignoring trauma doesn’t just hinder recovery; it can lead to cycles of relapse, mental health struggles, and even chronic physical health issues. 

For many, healing starts with connection – finding safe spaces where they can break the silence, share their truth, and learn healthier ways to cope. That’s why support networks are critical. 

Breaking the Cycle with STAR Network and TAR Anon 

At STAR Network™, we understand that true recovery goes beyond addiction – it means healing from the toxic abusive relationships and experiences that keep people stuck. We provide free support meetings weekly at TAR Anon survivors struggling with the impact of toxic relationships. 

For families and caregivers, who often face their own trauma and struggles in supporting loved ones, TAR Anon™ offers a dedicated, weekly space to find support and understanding. 

If you or someone you love is navigating the complex path of recovery, you don’t have to travel alone.  

Your Story Isn’t Over. Let’s Heal Together.