The Impact of Trauma Exposure on Mental Health Outcomes an Examination of Depression, Anxiety, and Substance use Disorders among Trauma Survivors

Abstract

Background: The impact of trauma exposure on mental health outcomes has been extensively studied; however, there is a need for further investigation into the specific relationship between trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders among trauma survivors. Aim: This study aims to examine the association between trauma exposure and negative mentalincluding depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, among trauma survivors. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional correctional design to study the relationship between trauma exposure, mental health, and substance use disorders. Trauma exposure is assessed using the Life Events Checklist for DSM-5 (LEC-5). Depression levels are measured using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), anxiety levels are assessed using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and substance use and associated risk levels are evaluated using the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). Results: Correlation analysis revealed that trauma exposure is strongly correlated with depression (r = .965, p < .01), anxiety (r = .851, p < .01), and substance use scores, including tobacco (r = .624, p < .01), alcohol (r = .654, p < .01),] marijuana (r = .553, p < .01), amphetamine (r = .300, p < .01), and inhalant (r = .420,p < .01). However, no significant correlation is found between trauma exposure and substance use types such as cocaine (r = .063, p < .01), sedative (r = .029, p < .01), hallucinogen (r = .068, p < .01), and opioid (r = .032, p < .01). Conclusion: The study provides evidence of a significant relationship between trauma exposure and negative mental= health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, among trauma survivors. These findings underscore the importance of addressing trauma exposure in therapeutic interventions to mitigate the risk of developing mental health disorders and substance abuse problems in individuals who have experienced trauma.