One of the biggest sufferings for humankind is the failed bonding between the child and the primary caregiver which results in the trauma of attachment, also known as attachment disorder.

The traumatised child loses self-esteem as the child thinks the events as it was to do with him/her self. Trauma manifests itself in many different ways and addiction is one of them. Addiction is a response to suffering and escape from the actual pain temporarily. My favourite author Dr. Gabor Matè defines addiction as ‘manifested in any behaviours, craving for short term relief knowing about the long term negative consequences and not giving up.’

Addiction is a way to release some of the pain, therefore it is not the problem, it is the cause of addiction that is the real problem. Is it possible to heal trauma? Not from the medical perspective which wholly focuses on the treatment of the biological outcome with medication. Healing happens inside the person. Once we understand the origins of something, we can try different tools for people which works. We need to pay attention internally and open our hearts not just focus with our mind. I believe healing is possible with a supportive environment, compassion and lots of love. As Dr Maté says, “Transformation is an event, for others, it is a life long process.”

Love and Gratitude.