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Reviewed by Veterans face unique challenges in their careers and lives that can potentially lead to substance abuse. Combat-related trauma, mental health disorders, and difficulties transitioning back to civilian life are part of the truth that could be difficult to face.
By 2020, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported that 8.3% of veterans aged 26 or older were suffering from alcohol use disorder (AUD), 2.4% of veterans in this age group misused opioids, and among all the veteran population, 11.8% had both a substance use disorder (SUD) and a mental illness. In the general population, 13.5% of individuals 12 or older reported abusing drugs the month before in 2020.
The numbers are high, and due to the multiple needs and challenges veterans face, recognizing the need for specialized care is key. Numerous treatment centers across the country cater specifically to Veterans struggling with substance abuse.
In this article, you will find information about the different challenges faced by veterans, the statistics that support the general concern, and the rehab centers available around the country.
Table Of Contents:
Veterans Substance Abuse
According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, alcohol remains the most abused substance among veterans, and almost three-quarters of those with SUD were alcohol dependent.
About illicit drugs, Marijuana was the most commonly used. The report shows that 10.4% of veterans aged 26 or older were using the month previous to the survey. Also, veterans are not exempt from the national trend, and 2.4% of veterans in this age group were misusing opioids in the year before the survey.
Other substances were reported in the same survey but on a lower scale; cocaine, methamphetamine, and LSD are part of the drugs abused by veterans.
| Substance | Percentage of Veterans Aged 18+ or 26+ |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | 8.3% |
| Marijuana | 10.4% |
| Prescription Pain Relievers | — |
| Opioids | 2.4% |
| Cocaine | 0.1% |
| Methamphetamine | 1.3% |
| LSD | 0.3% |
| Prescription Stimulants | 0.6% |
Risk Factors Contributing to Substance Abuse in Veterans
The increased risk of substance abuse among veterans can be associated with several factors that can co-occur.
Combat exposure is one of the many factors that play a significant role in the development of SUD and AUD. Usually, veterans who have served in combat zones are more likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The experience of combat and its aftermath often leave lasting psychological impacts, making these individuals more vulnerable to turning to drugs or alcohol to cope with their trauma.
Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are prevalent among veterans and are closely linked to substance use disorders as a form of self-medication.
Mental health challenges, combined with the physical injuries sustained during service, often result in chronic pain that can also lead to the misuse of painkillers and other medications, further increasing the risk of substance abuse.
| Risk Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Combat Exposure | Veterans who have served in combat zones are more likely to suffer from PTSD. |
| Mental Health Disorders | Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are prevalent among veterans and are closely linked to substance use disorders. |
| Chronic Pain | Physical injuries sustained during service often result in chronic pain, potentially leading to the misuse of painkillers and other medications. |
How to Help a Veteran Who is Struggling SUD?
Like with other people, helping a veteran involves expressing genuine concern and offering non-judgmental support while encouraging them to seek professional help through the VA healthcare system or other community resources.
It’s important to listen actively to their experiences but also to try to understand the stressors that could drive the substance abuse problem.
Maintaining regular contact, involving trusted family members or friends, and being patient throughout their recovery process are crucial to ensuring they feel supported and motivated to pursue treatment.
Rehab Services Offered to Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is in charge of providing support to veterans. It offers a wide array of rehabilitation services to veterans struggling with substance use disorders.
Usually, the services offered include medically managed detoxification programs that help veterans safely withdraw from substances and stabilize their condition, especially from alcohol abuse.
The VA also provides Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), which is widely used and combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies, particularly for those battling opioid or alcohol dependence.
Additionally, the VA offers various counseling and behavioral therapies, including individual and group sessions tailored to veterans’ specific needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a commonly used approach in these sessions.
For veterans requiring more intensive support, the VA offers inpatient treatment programs that provide 24/7 care in a structured environment, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the recovery process.
| Service | VA Centers | Conditions Treated | Type of Support Provided | Inpatient / Outpatient |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detoxification Programs | Medically managed detox to safely withdraw and stabilize veterans | Substance withdrawal, stabilization | Medical supervision, withdrawal management | Inpatient |
| Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) | Combines medication with counseling and behavioral therapies, especially for opioid/alcohol dependence | Opioid dependence, alcohol dependence | Medication (e.g., methadone, buprenorphine), counseling, therapy | Outpatient/Inpatient (varies by case) |
| Counseling and Behavioral Therapies | Individual and group counseling, with therapies like CBT tailored for veterans | PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorder | Emotional support, coping strategies, behavioral modification | Outpatient |
| Residential Treatment Programs | 24/7 care in a structured environment for those requiring intensive support | Severe addiction, co-occurring disorders | Full-time care, therapeutic community, structured recovery program | Inpatient |
Rehab Centers for Veterans
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates about 250 rehabilitation programs at around 120 residential rehab sites across the United States. These centers provide comprehensive treatment for veterans struggling with substance use disorders (SUD) and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Given their large veteran populations, the states with the highest concentration of these facilities typically include California, Texas, and Florida.
Services offered at VA rehab centers are extensive and include medically managed detoxification, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and various forms of counseling and behavioral therapy.
Veterans can receive inpatient and outpatient care, with inpatient services offering 24/7 support in a structured environment for more severe cases. The VA also provides specialized care for related health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.
Veteran Insurance Coverage
The VA health care system offers coverage for SUD treatment, including inpatient and outpatient care, detoxification, medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and aftercare services.
Veterans can access these services at VA medical centers, community-based outpatient clinics, or through referrals to community care providers.
For those who cannot easily access VA facilities, the VA Community Care Program allows veterans to receive care from non-VA providers.
Additionally, veteran-specific programs like Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs (RRTPs) and Vet Centers provide specialized care and support during recovery, often at little or no cost.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| VA Health Care System | Offers comprehensive SUD treatment, including inpatient, outpatient, detox, MAT, counseling, and aftercare services. |
| Eligibility | Available to veterans enrolled in the VA health care system, with costs depending on eligibility and priority group. |
| Veteran-Specific Programs | It includes residential rehabilitation treatment programs (RRTPs) and vet centers that offer specialized care. |
| Community Care Programs | Allows access to non-VA providers when VA services are unavailable due to distance, wait times, or specific needs. |
| Cost | Usually free or low-cost, depending on the veteran’s eligibility and priority group. |
Who Has VA Healthcare Benefits?
VA healthcare benefits are for all veterans who were honorably discharged or released. Combat veterans who served in a combat zone after November 11, 1998, are eligible for enhanced benefits for at least five years after discharge.
Also, veterans with service-connected disabilities, Purple Heart recipients, former prisoners of war, Medal of Honor recipients, and those exposed to hazardous materials during service may also qualify for coverage.
Besides them, low-income veterans are sometimes eligible based on financial need, even without a service-connected disability. Eligibility depends on various factors, so veterans should consult the VA to confirm their specific benefits.
Substance Abuse Treatment Centers for Veterans – Conclusion
When addressing substance abuse problems in veterans, it is important to remember that they face unique challenges that contribute to substance abuse, including combat trauma and mental health issues.
Specialized treatment is crucial, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers comprehensive rehab services tailored to veterans’ needs. With the right care and support, veterans can overcome substance abuse and achieve lasting recovery.
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Page Sources
- US Department of Veterans Affairs: Health needs and conditions
- SAMHSA: National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH)
- SAMHSA: 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
- US Department of Veterans Affairs: PTSD: National Center for PTSD
- National Library of Medicine: Veteran and Military Mental Health Issues
- US Department of Veterans Affairs: The PACT Act and your VA benefits
- US Department of Veterans Affairs: Substance Use Treatment for Veterans