The Impact of Historical Trauma on Substance Use Disorders in Native American Communities

There is a significant disparity in Substance Use Disorders between the Native American community and the general population in the United States today. This disparity may be attributed to the historical trauma experienced by the community due to colonization. The Native American community in the United States has experienced numerous collective traumatic events, ranging from direct physical violence, to forced relocation, cultural suppression, and economic exploitation. The resultant structural inequalities and cultural loss continue to have a significant impact on the health and well-being of the Native American community today. Polyvagal Theory presents a unique framework through which the Substance Use disparity in the community can be understood and through which, solutions and culturally adapted interventions can be designed to re-establish a sense of safety and autonomy in the Native American community, thereby supporting well-being.