Why Mental Health Care Must Be Central to Addiction Treatment Belinda Morey BS, CSAC  Clinical Substance Use Counselor - IGNTD Coach - Recovery Coach - Blogger - Editorial Advisor Board member - “doing all the things” August 27, 2025 Addiction is too often misunderstood as a problem of willpower or moral failing. Clinical experience and extensive research tell us it’s far more complex—deeply intertwined with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Trauma alters brain regions critical for emotional regulation and decision-making, increasing vulnerability to addiction and complicating recovery. Studies show trauma-informed care reduces relapse and improves engagement by creating safe, supportive environments that foster healing ( Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2023 ). Yet, despite this evidence, many addiction treatment programs still treat mental health as an afterthought. Detox and abstinence alone do not address the root ...