The Trauma & SUD Action Force Initiative (TSAFI)
Start with the Truth: Trauma & Addiction
The science of trauma and addiction, explained clearly and humanely
Join our Global Campaign “Start with the Truth: Trauma & Addiction”
On August 25th, we launched the campaign, in collaboration with Drug Free America Foundation and World Federation Against Drugs. The Campaign intends to present the science of trauma and addiction in a clear and humanely manner. From August 25th onwards, reels and videos, in both English and Spanish, will highlight the impact of trauma and the importance of integrating it in our services to create a supportive and healing environment.
See all the videos further down below
About Us
The Unspoken Link: Trauma and Addiction
Trauma isn’t just a story; it is a neurological and biological reality embedded in our brains, bodies, and communities. It rewires the brain, disrupts the nervous system, and alters core belief systems. It shapes how individuals perceive the world, regulate emotions, and respond to stress – often driving to substance use as a coping mechanism. As substance use rates climb globally, we are pouring immense resources into treatment, yet the numbers stubbornly persist.
Therefore, it is essential to Start with the Truth to develop effective prevention strategies, improve SUD treatment, and support lasting recovery.
The Critical Oversight: A Gap in Care
Trauma is the missing link in global SUD policies and programmes. Between 75% and 95% of individuals with SUD have experienced trauma, yet prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts often overlook this critical factor. Failing to address trauma results in higher relapse rates, poorer treatment outcomes, and rising SUD indicators worldwide.
Cost of Ignoring Trauma
Why TSAFI Exists: A New Foundation
We know the best way to treat addiction is to prevent it from ever starting, whilst also ensuring comprehensive systems of care in treatment and rehabilitation to support sustainable recovery. To establish such systems of care, the link between trauma and addiction needs to be central to every conversation, every intervention, and every solution – that is why we are here.
Our Mission: Placing Trauma Science at the Core
Informing and empowering communities before trauma leads to addiction.
Acting with precision at the first signs of risk.
Offering Solutions that address the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms.
Offering specialised, evidence-based training on trauma-informed care, combining Neuroscience and Psychology.
Ensuring trauma is recognised as a central component to SUD prevention and treatment policies.
Elevating trauma’s role in SUD and its critical importance in recovery and prevention efforts. Not solely among the workforce and policymakers, but also among the wider community.
TSAFI is the catalys for a paradigm shift. We’re not just treating symptoms; we’re addressing the root cause to build sustainable and science-backed strategies. We’re not just hoping for change; we’re building a new foundation.
"Start With the Truth" - The Evidence: Videos & Snapshots
Trauma, Substance Use Disorders, and the Truth about Healing.
Addiction isn’t a moral failure—it’s often a response to deep, unresolved trauma. Up to 95% of people in substance use treatment have experienced trauma, especially early in life. This video explores how trauma shapes the brain and drives people toward substances not out of rebellion, but survival. True recovery requires more than sobriety—it requires healing. Learn how trauma-informed care can break cycles, build resilience, and replace shame with compassion.
Trauma, Trastornos por Consumo de Sustancias y la Verdad Sobre la Sanación
La adicción no es un fracaso moral, a menudo es una respuesta a un trauma profundo y no resuelto. Hasta un 95% de las personas en tratamiento por consumo de sustancias han atravesado un trauma, especialmente a temprana edad. Este video explora cómo el trauma moldea el cerebro y conduce a las personas al uso de sustancias, no por rebelión, sino por supervivencia. La verdadera recuperación requiere más que la sobriedad: requiere sanación. Aprende cómo la atención informada sobre el trauma puede romper ciclos, desarrollar resiliencia y reemplazar la vergüenza con compasión.
Campaign Clips
95% in Treatment Report Trauma | TruthInTreatment
Addiction Isn’t Weakness — It’s Survival | #SurvivalNotShame
Healing Starts with Understanding | #UnderstandToHeal
Trauma, trastornos por consumo de sustancias y la verdad sobre la sanación
La adicción no es una debilidad — es un intento de supervivencia
La sanación comienza con la comprensión
Organisations behind the initiative
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