Recovery is not a straight path. For those who have endured trauma, the journey can feel especially daunting. But there is hope, and real people are living proof of it. Across Texas and beyond, trauma survivors are reclaiming their lives and finding strength in recovery. Their stories offer insight, encouragement, and a reminder that healing is possible, even when it feels out of reach.
In this blog, we share the experiences of individuals who have faced trauma and found healing through substance use treatment, therapy, and supportive recovery environments. Each story shows that while the past cannot be changed, the future can still be written with courage and care.
Understanding the Link Between Trauma and Substance Use
Trauma affects the brain and body in lasting ways. It alters how people think, react, and cope. Many trauma survivors turn to substances to numb painful memories or escape emotions they were never taught how to process. Studies show that people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are significantly more likely to develop substance use disorders.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 46.4% of individuals with lifetime PTSD also meet criteria for substance use disorder (SUD). This co-occurrence is particularly prevalent among veterans and individuals who have experienced severe trauma.
The connection is clear. But recovery is also possible, especially when trauma-informed care is at the center of treatment. Understanding the root cause of addiction is essential to helping someone build a life beyond substance use. That’s where stories from real survivors become powerful: they show what’s possible when trauma is met with compassion and expertise.
Story 1: Michael Standiford – From Overdose to Advocacy
Michael Standiford’s journey through addiction began in his early teens, leading to a 30-year struggle with substance use. His life was marked by repeated overdoses and hospitalizations, culminating in a near-fatal shooting incident in 2018. This trauma became a catalyst for change, pushing him to confront the depth of his addiction and finally accept help.
Michael sought support at UofL Hospital, where a compassionate team introduced him to trauma-informed care and long-term recovery options. With consistent therapy, peer support, and medical treatment, Michael began to heal from both his physical injuries and emotional wounds. He eventually pursued a degree in psychology to support others through similar battles.
Now sober for several years, Michael works as an advocate and mentor for individuals struggling with addiction. He shares his story publicly to raise awareness about the connection between trauma and substance use disorder. His transformation from overdose survivor to mental health advocate demonstrates the importance of second chances and the critical role of integrated care. Michael’s story was featured in UofL Health’s blog as a source of hope for others beginning their journey to recovery.
Story 2: Casey Broussard – Rebuilding a Family Through Recovery
Casey Broussard and her husband endured years of meth and alcohol addiction that fractured their lives and led to the removal of their two children by child protective services. The turning point came in 2021 when they were accepted into Beaumont’s FIRST Court (formerly Drug Court) program, a structured recovery initiative designed to help parents overcome addiction and reunify families.
FIRST Court connected Casey with therapists, parenting coaches, and counselors who treated both the root trauma and the substance use disorder. For Casey, this wasn’t just about getting sober, it was about breaking a generational cycle and building a future where her children could thrive. The court program emphasized accountability, routine drug screenings, consistent therapy, and community service. These elements created a stable environment where Casey and her husband could focus on rebuilding trust and reshaping their identities.
Over time, they met every requirement, overcame setbacks, and regained custody of their children. But Casey’s transformation didn’t stop at reunification. Inspired by the care she received, she trained to become a substance abuse counselor, determined to help other families find the hope and tools they need to heal. Her story was featured in the Beaumont Enterprise as a powerful example of how treatment-centered approaches can restore lives and reconnect families.
Story 3: Alexis Welch’s Journey Through Family Treatment Court
Alexis “Lexy” Welch was a young mother facing addiction when she entered Schenectady County Family Treatment Court. Like many parents with substance use disorders, she feared losing custody of her children and struggled with guilt, shame, and a sense of hopelessness. Family Treatment Courts offer an alternative to traditional court systems by focusing on rehabilitation and reunification. With a dedicated team including case managers, therapists, and addiction specialists, Lexy received the support she needed to stay sober, learn parenting skills, and rebuild her life.
Throughout the program, Lexy committed herself to personal growth. She attended parenting classes, therapy sessions, and regular court reviews, all while maintaining sobriety. These efforts were not only transformative for her mental health and stability but also critical in regaining the trust of those around her. Her journey wasn’t without challenges, but she remained determined. The structure and encouragement provided by the program helped her stay focused on her goals.
Graduating alongside two other mothers, Lexy was awarded full custody of her children. Her determination and success made her a source of encouragement for others in the program. Today, she continues to share her experience to help raise awareness about the benefits of treatment courts and the importance of community-based recovery solutions. Her story reflects the power of second chances, wraparound services, and the role of compassion in helping parents break free from the cycle of addiction and family separation.
What These Stories Have in Common
Though each story is unique, they share key themes that are vital to trauma recovery:
- Support networks matter. Whether it’s family, peer groups, or treatment professionals, recovery is more sustainable when individuals feel seen and supported.
- Trauma-informed care is essential. These stories reveal how important it is for treatment providers to understand trauma, avoid re-traumatization, and create safe healing environments.
- Recovery is a process, not a moment. Each survivor discourses about setbacks, small victories, and the ongoing nature of their healing. There’s no one path, but every step forward counts.
Why Sharing Survivor Stories Matters
Sharing personal recovery stories plays a vital role in both individual healing and community support. Research indicates that storytelling in addiction recovery helps individuals process trauma, fosters connection among peers, and reduces feelings of isolation. By narrating their experiences, individuals can articulate their emotions, leading to emotional release and catharsis. Moreover, storytelling fosters a sense of connection among peers, creating bonds through shared struggles and reducing feelings of isolation. This communal aspect is especially beneficial in group therapy settings, where shared experiences create a supportive atmosphere conducive to healing.
Incorporating peer mentorship and storytelling workshops into recovery programs has been shown to improve engagement and recovery rates. Peer support can double the chances of staying sober compared to going through recovery alone. It works by connecting people with shared experiences, offering emotional support, practical advice, and social connections. Studies show that integrating peer support into addiction treatment improves outcomes like treatment participation, long-term abstinence, and mental health.
These findings underscore the importance of integrating storytelling and peer support into recovery programs to enhance outcomes and foster a supportive community.
If You’re Still Struggling, You’re Not Alone
Recovery can feel overwhelming, especially when trauma runs deep. But the stories above show that no matter how far gone things may feel, healing is possible with the right support. Whether it’s your first time seeking help or you’ve tried before, you deserve a safe space to begin again.
Start Writing Your Own Story
We believe every person deserves the opportunity to heal, not just from addiction, but from the wounds that led them there. Our recovery programs combine evidence-based treatment with compassionate care, providing a place where survivors can find strength, safety, and the tools to move forward.
Healing begins with a single step. Let this be the moment you start writing your own success story. We’ll be here to walk beside you the whole way.
Let's Do This!