What it is

The From Myth to Action Toolkit is an evidence-based and field-inspired guide that bridges science and practice. It helps you understand the connection between trauma and substance use, dismantle common myths, and apply simple, neuroscience-informed tools that are relatable and easy to implement in real-world contexts.

It’s designed for those working directly with people in communities, families, and SUD programmes, who want practical strategies to foster prevention and recovery through trauma-informed action.

Why we created it

When we launched our global campaign on trauma and substance use myths in May 2025, we received over 52 myths from 13 countries. These myths revealed not only widespread misinformation but also a deep desire to understand and respond better.

The From Myth to Action Toolkit was born from those voices, from the field itself. It translates what professionals and communities shared into a practical, science-based resource that helps move from awareness to action, making trauma-informed care accessible, relevant, and doable everywhere.

What you will gain

  • A clear, science-based understanding of how trauma and substance use are connected.
  • Real examples and field-tested tools adaptable to any setting.
  • Practical exercises to help you move from awareness to action.
  • The most common myths and how to dismantle them with evidence and empathy.
  • Simple, actionable strategies to build trauma-informed environments that foster prevention and recovery.

Bring the Toolkit to your Organisation

Access the Toolkit here (EN)
Acceda al kit de herramientas aquí (ES)

What do you know about trauma / How do you incorporate trauma in your work? We want to map the understanding and integration of trauma in prevention and treatment to develop material accordingly. Share your input in our short 5-minute survey by November 30! 

Fill out the Survey here

Pilot Feedback Results

We are proud to share the results of our “From Myths to Action” toolkit pilot, conducted in South Africa, Pakistan, and Argentina in 2025. The pilot included 46 members of the workforce. The conclusions of the pilot phase were clear: the toolkit supports service providers and community members, as well as policy makers and families, with tools to enhance their work by understanding misconceptions and ways to integrate trauma in their work. 

Myth Clarification

100%

said the toolkit clarified common myths

Perspective shift

92.5%

reported a shift in perspective

 

Recommendation

100%

would recommend the toolkit

 

Average likely to Apply/Reuse

4.57 / 4.24

Scale: 1=low, 5=High (higher is better)

Barriers to implementing trauma-responsive care
Limited time & resources 61%
Fear of saying the wrong thing/retraumatising 48%
Lack of specific training 44%
Lack of protocols or trained team 33%
Personal emotional overload/burnout 22%
None 6%

What participants said

"After completing this toolkit, my understanding of trauma is much deeper and compassionate. I now recognise how trauma can affect behaviour, mental health, and addiction, and I feel better equiped to respond with empathy."
- South Africa
"It's a disorder that needs to be treated well. By busting these myths we can save so many precious lives by addressing the traumatic incident that left them helpless."
- Pakistan
"It helped me better understand trauma and its relationship with addictions."
- Argentina