Many veterans experienced traumatic events and sustained injuries that have stayed with them since returning home. Some end up indulging in substances, such as painkillers, alcohol, or illicit drugs. When taken habitually, it can quickly turn into a substance use disorder (SUD), which is a medically diagnosed mental health disorder. 

There are several veteran rehabs in Ohio, California, Florida, and other states and regions across the country that can help. Four ways a veteran can cope with substance abuse include attending a rehabilitation center, finding professional mental health treatment, joining a support group, and volunteering. 

We’ll dive deeper into each of these options, so you can decide which one is the right fit for you or a loved one. 

Why Veterans Are at Risk for Addiction 

Out of the many demographics in America, veterans are some of the most at risk when it comes to addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that more than one in 10 veterans have a substance use disorder. 

There’s no one single reason for this high rate of addiction, but rather a number of reasons why those who served turn to substance abuse. Reasons for developing a substance use disorder can be:

  • a jolting transitional period from deployment to normal life
  • psychological scars and chronic pain from traumatic events and physical injuries 
  • military life instilling substances as a way to reward and bond while in active duty
  • development of other mental health disorders

One of the most prevalent combinations of co-occurring mental health disorders is PTSD and substance abuse in veterans. PTSD is common in veterans because they may have experienced warfare, abuse, or stress while deployed. 

Post-traumatic stress disorder can develop when someone experiences either one or a series of extremely stressful, intense, or scarring events. Memories from these events may come back in flashbacks, nightmares, or triggers. 

4 Ways Veterans Can Cope with Substance Abuse 

A substance abuse issue is treatable, thanks to a number of options. As with any mental health disorder, long-form treatment and an intensive approach is usually the best solution. Here are some ways a veteran can cope with an SUD:

  • Substance abuse treatment programs
  • Mental health options 
  • Support groups
  • Volunteer work

Let’s take a closer look at each of these choices. 

1. Substance Abuse Treatment

This is probably the best option to recover from a substance use disorder. Depending on which type of program you choose, these facilities treat addiction with a mix of medical, psychological, and social techniques. The different treatment programs are:

  • Detoxification: Detox is optimal for veterans withdrawing from physical dependence on a substance. Patients safely detox in a controlled environment and are given medication to help the body recover from uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. 
  • Inpatient: Patients live on-site for anywhere from three to six months, receiving around-the-clock care. They are immersed in a packed schedule of individual and group therapy and counseling.  
  • Outpatient: This is best for those with a milder case of addiction or those coming out of an inpatient residential program. Patients visit the outpatient facility one to five times a week for therapy and counseling, then return home. 

2. Mental Health Options 

Speaking to mental health professionals, such as therapists or psychologists, can help veterans get to the root problems of substance abuse issues. Therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists can also help you recognize what situations may trigger PTSD, depression, or anxiety, and help you create a mental health plan to better deal with these disorders without having to turn to substance use. Some psychologists may offer less addictive medications to cope with mental health disorders. 

3. Support Groups

There are various support groups that specialize in specific substances, and also groups for veterans. Some of these are:

  • 12-step groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, which focus on sharing stories of strength, hope, and recovery so those with substance use issues can connect and work together to stay sober. 
  • Peer support groups for veterans, which can help those who have shared military experiences bond and relate. 

4. Volunteer Work 

Veterans are typically more inclined to help others who are in need of assistance. While deployed, they may have been given endless opportunities to aid others. When they return to normal life, they may only see a self-sufficient society. However, there are several ways that a veteran can take the skills they learned overseas and apply it back home. Volunteer work can include: 

  • serving at food banks and shelters 
  • assisting those with disabilities or the elderly with everyday tasks 
  • cleaning up roads, beaches, trails, and other public places in your community 
  • if actively attending 12-step group meetings, working with other members who may need rides, food, or shelter

By helping others, veterans will regain a sense of purpose. This can curb the desire to abuse substances. 

Getting Help 

VA medical benefits will cover the cost of treatment for mental health disorders, such as SUD and PTSD. Find a VA location today to get recovery started.