“Understanding the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Addiction” is a five-page resource that explores the profound connection between early traumatic experiences and the development of substance use disorders. This guide examines how childhood trauma can disrupt normal development, leading to lasting psychological issues such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, which in turn increase the likelihood of addiction. It highlights the importance of addressing trauma in addiction treatment, providing insights into the long-term effects of trauma and the ways in which substance use exacerbates post-traumatic stress symptoms. This assignment encourages reflection on the role of trauma in addiction, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed care to support lasting recovery.

Written by clinical psychologist Dr. Hal Baumchen, PsyD, LP, LADC, this printable PDF worksheet gives clinicians a practical, session-ready tool. The conversational, encouraging tone makes clinical concepts accessible to clients at any stage of therapy, while structured prompts keep the work focused and productive.

How clinicians use it: as an in-session exercise to open and structure discussion, as between-session homework to reinforce skills, as a progress tool to track growth over time, and as part of a treatment unit paired with the companion lesson and PowerPoint on this topic. Formatted for easy printing and immediate use in individual or group settings.

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