Alcohol Abuse Help for Veterans
People in high-stress environments are vulnerable to alcohol and other drug addiction. Veterans returning from the field of battle have turned to alcohol as a means of self-medicating the stresses of military experience and the difficult readjustment they face when returning home. Some of the most common causes of substance abuse among veterans include the following:
- Coping with stress and loneliness in the field
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Difficulties with reentry into civilian society
- Depression during or immediately following service
- Damaged relationships back home
Veterans struggle with alcoholism and substance abuse at significantly higher rates than the general public. Unfortunately these returning military personnel rarely receive top quality addiction treatment as they reenter civilian life.
Substance Abuse Struggles Unique to Veterans
The desire to maintain an image of strength and solidarity within military culture often discourages admitting to weakness or seeking help. This keeps veterans from acknowledging their need for help even to themselves. Underlying psychological conditions such as PTSD, anxiety issues or depression can both fuel addiction and undermine recovery. While military hospitals are increasing their treatment of addiction among servicemen and women, many of these returning heroes respond better to confidential and personal treatment outside of the military culture.
Alcohol Abuse Treatment for Veterans
The most effective addiction recovery for veterans involves comprehensive treatment of all aspects of their disease. The physical addiction is treated through medically supervised detox services. The psychological aspects of the disorder require careful and long-term rehabilitation of the mind. Co-occurring disorders must be identified and treated as well. Some of the most effective treatment techniques include the following:
- Individualized counseling
- Support group meetings
- Opportunities to serve others
- Education about the causes and effects of addiction
- 12-step programs
- Healthy new relationships with fellow soldiers and others in recovery
- Introduction to new coping and relaxation skills
- Healthy and productive activities
- Spiritual support
When all of these elements come together in customized plans for each individual veteran, the results are promising. Veterans deserve society’s best treatment and resources.
Find the Best Alcohol Abuse Help for Veterans
Our toll-free helpline is staffed 24 hours a day with specially trained addiction counselors who understand the unique needs of veterans. Not all treatment is created equal. Call us today, and let us help find the most effective program for you.