Trauma and Substance Use in Hispanic Mothers: Insights, Considerations, and Future Directions for Culturally Grounded Interventions

Abstract Purpose of Review This review synthesizes research on trauma exposure and substance use disorder (SUD) among Hispanic mothers in the U.S., emphasizing culturally grounded strategies to address disparities in treatment access, engagement, and outcomes. Recent Findings Hispanic mothers face elevated trauma exposure, including adverse childhood experiences, intimate partner violence, and migration-related stress that increases SUD risk. Culturally responsive, trauma-informed interventions are needed using community-based models while integrating language and cultural adaptations. Advances in culturally valid measurement tools are also critical, as existing instruments often overlook culturally specific stressors and strengths. Summary Emerging research highlights the need to tailor SUD interventions for Hispanic mothers by centering sociocultural context and trauma histories. Integrating culturally responsive care and precise evaluation methods is essential to improve outcomes, promote equity, and disrupt intergenerational cycles of trauma and substance use disorder.