GateHouse Treatment is keenly aware that substance use disorders (SUDs) are a growing concern within the military veteran community, home to over 18 million individuals in the United States (according to the U.S. Census Bureau). The physical, emotional, and psychological stressors that military service entails can often predispose veterans to substance misuse, a problem that requires understanding and urgent attention. This blog reveals the complex dynamics between military veterans and substance use, emphasizing the prevalent substances, the contributing factors, and the path to recovery.
The Unique Vulnerability of Military Veterans to Substance Use Disorder
Military service is a high-stress environment, often marked by exposure to trauma and grueling physical demands. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that about 1 in 15 veterans had a substance use disorder in the past year, a sobering statistic that underscores the urgency of addressing this issue.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) elaborates that more than 20% of veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) also struggle with an SUD. The PTSD-SUD relationship appears to be bidirectional, where each condition exacerbates the symptoms of the other, creating a particularly challenging cycle to break.
Veterans with PTSD often use substances to self-medicate and manage their traumatic symptoms, while substance use can increase the frequency and intensity of PTSD symptoms. This complex interplay necessitates a dual-diagnosis treatment approach, treating both conditions simultaneously to disrupt this vicious cycle and pave the way for successful recovery.
Veterans Substance Use: The Pervasive Concern About Alcohol
Alcohol remains the most commonly used substance among veterans, often serving as a coping mechanism for stress, trauma, and the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life. A study published in the journal “Addictive Behaviors” in 2019 revealed that veterans are more likely than their civilian counterparts to engage in heavy drinking and meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder.
The pervasive use of alcohol in the military culture as a means of bonding and a coping strategy further exacerbates this problem. A lifestyle of inherent stressors, such as frequent deployments and combat exposure, often fosters alcohol use as self-medication. Addressing this issue demands a multifaceted approach, which includes screening for alcohol misuse, promoting healthier coping strategies, and providing targeted treatment for those struggling.
Veteran Substance Use: The Hidden Hazards of Prescription and Illicit Drug Use
Beyond alcohol, prescription drug misuse is increasingly prevalent within the veteran community. Veterans are more likely than civilians to receive prescriptions for opioids, potent pain-relieving drugs associated with a high risk of dependency and overdose. The American Public Health Association warns that veterans are twice as likely to die from accidental opioid overdoses compared to non-veterans, highlighting the urgent need for safer pain management strategies.
While less common, illicit drug use is a grave concern. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, about 3.1% of veterans have used illegal drugs in the past year. This data underscores the need for robust prevention measures and treatment programs explicitly addressing this population’s illicit drug use.
Veteran Substance Use Recovery: A Journey of Understanding and Healing
Substance use doesn’t have to dictate a veteran’s life. Increasing awareness and understanding of this issue can reduce stigma, promote help-seeking behavior, and develop practical treatment approaches tailored to veterans’ needs.
Treatment for SUDs in veterans can take several forms, including traditional therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and, increasingly, telehealth addiction services that offer flexibility and accessibility for veterans who may have logistical barriers or prefer the privacy of their homes. Each veteran’s path to recovery will be as unique as their experiences, underscoring the importance of personalized, patient-centered treatment approaches.
There is a growing interest in trauma-informed care that acknowledges the significant impact of military service-related trauma on substance use. This approach fosters a treatment environment that is mindful of the veterans’ traumatic experiences and integrates this understanding into all aspects of care.
Peer support programs have also shown promise in fostering recovery, where veterans support each other in overcoming substance use. The shared military background can foster a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding, which can be particularly beneficial in overcoming the isolation often associated with substance use disorders.
Moreover, the VA and other organizations offer family support programs recognizing that substance use disorders affect not only the individual veteran but also their family members. These programs provide education, counseling, and resources to help families support their loved ones while taking care of their well-being.
Veteran Substance Use Recovery: The Role of Society and Institutions
Society and institutions play a pivotal role in the recovery journey of veterans struggling with substance use disorders. A supportive community and adequate institutional resources are essential to facilitating veterans’ transitions from military to civilian life, aiding in their emotional well-being, and reducing substance misuse tendencies.
One vital institutional support is the Veterans Treatment Courts (VTCs). VTCs are specially designed courts that deal with veterans who come into contact with the criminal justice system due to substance misuse and mental health issues. They focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, offering veterans access to appropriate treatment, housing, education, and employment services. Evidence suggests that VTCs significantly improve the recovery outcomes of veterans.
Moreover, society plays an integral role by creating an accepting environment that reduces the stigma associated with SUDs. Such progress can lead to a higher likelihood of veterans seeking help. Public awareness campaigns about the unique challenges veterans face and the realities of SUDs can encourage societal empathy, promoting an atmosphere conducive to recovery.
Veteran Substance Use Recovery: Promising Research and Future Developments
Substance use recovery in veterans is an active area of research, with emerging developments promising better outcomes. Innovative treatment methods like Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) have shown potential in treating PTSD, a common comorbidity with SUDs in veterans.
There’s also a growing interest in the role of physical activity and alternative therapies in combating SUDs. Regular physical activity, including yoga and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques, can serve as healthy coping mechanisms, reducing reliance on substances.
Furthermore, tech companies are beginning to harness artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to create predictive models to identify veterans at risk of developing SUDs. These models can guide targeted interventions, potentially preventing the onset of SUDs.
Finally, telehealth and digital health tools, such as mobile apps for addiction recovery, have shown promise in providing veterans with constant support and resources, making recovery more accessible and flexible to individual needs.
The relationship between military veterans and substance use is complex, layered with individual, societal, and institutional factors. However, a multifaceted understanding and holistic approach to treatment can usher in a brighter future for veterans grappling with substance use. The commitment towards this cause must be unyielding, as we owe it to our veterans to provide the necessary support and resources for their path to recovery.
Veteran Substance Use: What Does a Successful Recovery Look Like?
As we strive to understand and address the relationship between military veterans and substance use, our overarching goal remains for these brave individuals’ well-being and successful recovery. The sacrifices made by our veterans warrant our steadfast commitment to providing them with the understanding, resources, and care they need during and after their service. Breaking the chains of addiction is challenging, but recovery is within reach with the proper support, treatment, and a strong commitment.
GateHouse Treatment encourages veterans and their families to reach out for help, whether it be through local VA resources, dedicated hotlines, or trusted healthcare providers. Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a testament to every veteran’s strength and courage. It is the first crucial step toward a healthier, substance-free life.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, be it a military veteran, coworker, teenager, or anyone, please do not hesitate to call us at (855)448-3588 or contact us for a free consultation.
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- Military Veterans and Substance Use Disorder: An Examination - September 26, 2023
