While serving their country, veterans sacrifice their physical and mental well-being for the greater good. While in active duty, they live a very structured and regimented life, the same isn’t always the case when they return to civilian life. This lack of structure, combined with what they have gone through both physically and mentally, can make the transition back to civilian life difficult.
Unfortunately, veterans often do not seek professional assistance to help them adjust to their new life when returning to civilian life. Instead, they turn to substances of abuse such as drugs and alcohol to numb the physical and mental pain associated with their time serving. While in the movement, they may feel temporary relief, long-term this just exacerbates their issues leading to more severe issues such as mental health disorders and substance addiction.
Drug rehab for veterans, such as the programs we offer at Northern Illinois Recovery, offers vital services to those who served their country, allowing them to recover from both their addiction and mental health struggles and go on to enjoy living their lives once again.
Below are some other alarming statistics as they relate to substance abuse among veterans:
- More than 80% (nearly 900,000) abuse alcohol
- Nearly 27% (about 300,000) abuse illegal drugs
- About 7% (almost 80,000) abuse both alcohol and illegal drugs
What Causes Addiction in Veterans?
- Combat Trauma and PTSD: Veterans who have experienced combat-related trauma often turn to substances to numb emotional pain.
- Chronic Pain and Prescription Medications – Many veterans suffer from injuries sustained during service and may be prescribed opioids or other pain relievers, which can lead to dependence.
- Mental Health Disorders – Depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increase the likelihood of substance abuse.
- Difficulty Transitioning to Civilian Life – Many veterans struggle with employment, relationships, and financial stress after leaving the military.
- Social Isolation – The loss of camaraderie and the structured lifestyle of military service can lead to feelings of isolation and subsequent substance abuse.
- Military Culture and Peer Influence – Many service members engage in heavy drinking while enlisted, making it a difficult habit to break after leaving the military.
Common Substances Abused Among Veterans with Substance Use Disorder
- Alcohol: The most commonly abused substance among veterans, alcohol is often used to self-medicate PTSD and other mental health conditions. According to the NIDA, 65% of veterans who enter treatment programs do so for alcohol.
- Prescription Medications: Opioids prescribed for pain management can lead to addiction, especially with prolonged use. Benzodiazepines, often prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders, are also commonly misused.
- Illicit Drugs: Cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine are also common among veterans struggling with addiction. That same 2018 survey found that nearly 11% of veterans were admitted to treatment centers for heroin use while more than 6% were admitted for cocaine use.
- Marijuana: Some veterans use marijuana to cope with PTSD symptoms, but it can lead to dependency and further mental health complications. Over 2 million veterans report using marijuana at least once.
- Nicotine and Tobacco Products: While not often considered a traditional substance abuse of abuse, nicotine dependence is widespread among veterans and can be challenging to overcome.
Mental Health Issues Faced by Veterans: A Pathway to Addiction
In addition to PTSD, some of the other more common mental health issues that veterans deal with include:
- Depression and Anxiety – Many veterans struggle with depression and anxiety due to combat experiences, personal loss, or difficulties adjusting to civilian life.
- Suicidal Ideation – Veterans suffering from mental health issues are at an increased risk of suicide. Substance abuse further heightens this risk.
- Sleep Disorders – Many veterans experience insomnia or nightmares, often turning to substances like alcohol or sedatives to help them sleep.
The Impact of PTSD on Substance Use in Veterans
Whether it’s fear, embarrassment, not sure who to talk to, or a combination of the three, veterans often turn to drugs or alcohol to address their PTSD struggles instead of seeking professional intervention. The relief they get, even if it’s brief, starts the process of what ultimately becomes a dangerous cycle of not just substance abuse and addiction, but also worsening mental health.
Veterans and Mental Health
More than 20% of all veterans diagnosed with PTSD have co-occurring disorders meaning, that in addition to their PTSD, they are also suffering from a substance use disorder.
The most common dual diagnoses among veterans include:
- PTSD and alcohol addiction
- Depression and opioid addiction
- Anxiety and prescription drug abuse
Treatment Options for Veterans with Co-Occurring Disorders
Treatment for co-occurring disorders requires a specialized form of treatment known as dual diagnosis treatment. This form of treatment often includes:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – Helps veterans address negative thought patterns that contribute to substance abuse.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – Medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone can help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Group and Individual Therapy – Provides support and coping strategies for both mental health and substance use issues.
- Peer Support Programs – Veterans may benefit from support groups specifically designed for those with similar experiences.
- Holistic Therapies – Yoga, meditation, and art therapy can complement traditional treatment approaches.
Insurance Verification
Barriers to Seeking Help: Why Veterans May Avoid Treatment
This may be due to a variety of reasons such as:
- Stigma – Many veterans fear judgment from their peers or commanding officers for admitting they need help.
- Lack of Awareness – Some veterans may not recognize the severity of their addiction or know that help is available.
- Limited Access to Care – In rural areas, access to specialized veteran treatment programs may be limited.
- Financial Concerns – Although VA benefits cover many treatment options, not all veterans are aware of their eligibility.
- Fear of Career Consequences – Active-duty service members and reservists may worry about how seeking treatment could impact their military or civilian careers.
Treatment Options For Veterans
Other treatment options include:
- A private rehab facility such as Northern Illinois Recovery
- Community support groups such as 12-step programs
- Sober living facilities
- Alternative therapies and treatments
Northern Illinois Recovery Offers Drug Rehab For Veterans
- Veteran-Specific Therapy
- Medication-Assisted Treatment
- Holistic and Evidence-Based Therapies
- A Supportive Community
If you or a loved one is a veteran struggling with addiction, Northern Illinois Recovery is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and take the first step toward recovery.
