People often ask me, “Why do you work with people with such complex histories, like substance abuse, childhood trauma, and PTSD?” My surface-level response typically involves explaining that I truly believe there’s a connection between the aforementioned variables. After all, very few people with a substance abuse problem have no past traumas. I like to bring awareness, unpack deeply rooted issues, and encourage hope.
When I go deeper, I think, “Why am I compelled to work with these individuals?” My interest in treating individuals with substance abuse problems began in 2012. I had recently graduated from Columbia University with my master’s degree in clinical psychology and was hired as a Clinical Research Coordinator at the Icahn School of Medicine, NYC. During this time, there was an influx of synthetic cannabis on the rise.
I was eager on my first day of work—ready to understand the neurobiology behind addiction through the lens of a scientist in a lab. Unbeknownst to me, I was asked to shadow psychologists on the clinical unit. What I witnessed was both sad and fascinating
Youngsters ranging in age from twenty-one to thirty-three, all of whom displayed active psychotic symptoms (i.e., vivid hallucinations, delusions, etc.) after consuming synthetic marijuana. I wasn’t intimidated. Instead, I was intrigued and compelled to help. That began my quest to understand not only the biopsychosocial relationship between addiction and mental illness but how to treat it.
If you or a family member are struggling with addiction or substance abuse, you are not alone. In 2019, approximately 20 million people in the United States were diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Nearly 100,000 of those people died from alcohol-related or drug overdoses. Sadly, less than 15% of people with a substance use disorder seek treatment.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a diagnosis of substance use disorder is based on several broad symptoms including:
- Cravings
- Withdrawal
- Lack of control
- Negative effects on personal and professional responsibilities
Fortunately, there is hope. Evidence shows that a multidimensional, personalized, and dynamic approach to treating substance use disorder helps individuals move toward recovery and maintenance. Treatments include:
- Providing education on the neurobiological effects of substance abuse on cognitive functioning
- Medication management
- Motivational groups focusing on acceptance and commitment to lifestyle change
- Exploring underlying factors that may be contributors
- Harm reduction approaches
Dr. Sharron Spriggs is a clinical psychologist specializing in insight-oriented treatment for adolescents and adults. With a firm belief in the interconnectedness of current symptoms and early childhood experiences, Dr. Spriggs guides her patients to comprehend the underlying factors shaping their thoughts, feelings, and understanding of their current situations. Her expertise extends to substance abuse and childhood trauma.
