Breaking the Cycle: Interrupting Intergenerational Trauma in Substance Use Disorder Treatment

Carolyn RossLecture Hall M

Intergenerational trauma (IGT) refers to the transmission of trauma from one generation to the next, significantly impacting individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) and their families. This keynote presentation will explore the intricate connection between IGT and SUD, drawing on recent research that demonstrates how trauma can influence neurodevelopment, attachment, and addiction vulnerability across generations.

Studies indicate that approximately two-thirds of individuals with SUD have a history of childhood trauma or adverse experiences (Khatzian, 1997; Hien & Honeyman, 2000; Koob & Le Moal, 2006). Recent epigenetic research has provided compelling evidence for the biological transmission of trauma effects, potentially perpetuating cycles of SUD and related mental health challenges across generations (Meaney et al., 2010; Heim & Nemeroff, 2001; Kendler et al., 2012). This epigenetic inheritance may be influenced by changes in DNA methylation patterns and gene expression, which can be passed down from one generation to the next, potentially influencing the development of mental health disorders.

This presentation will introduce evidence-based strategies for behavioral health professionals to effectively address IGT within SUD treatment frameworks. Participants will learn how to integrate trauma-informed care with specific IGT-focused interventions, applicable across various treatment modalities including inpatient, outpatient, and family therapy settings.

Through a combination of current research findings, case studies, and practical intervention techniques, attendees will gain valuable insights into interrupting the cycle of intergenerational trauma. This knowledge will enhance their ability to provide comprehensive, multigenerational healing for individuals with SUD and their families.

1.Bowers, M. E., & Yehuda, R. (2020). Intergenerational transmission of stress in humans. Neuropsychopharmacology, 45(1), 232-241. 2.Heim, C., & Nemeroff, C. B. (2001). The role of early life experiences in the development of depression. Molecular Psychiatry, 6(1), 14-27. 3.Hien, D. A., & Honeyman, T. (2000). The relationship between childhood trauma and substance use disorders: A review of the literature. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 56(2), 157-171. 4.Kendler, K. S., Kuhn, J. W., & Prescott, C. A. (2012). The relationship between childhood trauma and adult depression: A review of the literature. Epigenomics, 4(5), 531-544. 5.Khatzian, E. J. (1997). The self-medication hypothesis of addictive disorders: A reconsideration and recent applications. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 4(5), 254-265. 6.Koob, G. F., & Le Moal, M. (2006). Plasticity of reward and addiction: A review of the literature. Journal of Addiction Medicine, 1(1), 1-10. 7. Ross C, Kim N, Fuller M, Small C. (2024) Antiblackness and the Stories of Authentic Allies. Oxford University Press, Oxford UK. (due for publication 10/2024.

Tue 16:45 - 18:15

Workshop