Addiction Treatment Centers: Vital Lifelines for Military Members and Veterans

Published On: January 6, 2025

Active-duty service members and military veterans face numerous challenges that increase their risk of drug and alcohol addiction. From the physical and psychological stress of combat to the challenges of reintegration into civilian life, these factors can contribute to substance abuse in the military.

Addiction treatment centers play a significant role in providing support and resources for military members and veterans struggling with substance use disorders (SUDs).

The Prevalence of Substance Use Disorders in the Military

Drug and alcohol abuse in the military remains a significant concern among active-duty personnel and veterans. Studies show that deployments have been heavily associated with problematic drinking habits, smoking initiation, drug use, and risky behaviors in service members.

Binge drinking among active-duty military members is higher compared to the general U.S. population. More than one in ten veterans have been diagnosed with a drug or alcohol addiction (substance use disorder), which is also higher than the general population. Military personnel and veterans face unique challenges that make them more vulnerable to developing an addiction to drugs or alcohol, including:

Combat-related trauma
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Combat-related injuries
Chronic pain
Stress from military culture
Transition challenges
Peer pressure
Limited access to resources
Mental health issues
Emotional distress

Understanding the factors that increase addiction risk in military members and veterans is essential for identifying and addressing the root causes.

Combat-Related Trauma and PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most common mental health conditions among active-duty military personnel and veterans. The intense psychological and emotional impact of combat-related trauma can cause service members to self-medicate with alcohol, prescription drugs, or illicit substances. Studies show that more than 2 of 10 veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) also have an SUD.

Chronic Pain and Prescription Medications

Military service places active-duty personnel in physically challenging situations that may cause injuries or chronic conditions. These injuries and medical conditions often require pain management, typically prescription painkillers like opioids.

Opioids are highly addictive pain medications that can lead to dependency, misuse, and opioid use disorder (OUD). Many active-duty personnel and veterans require medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to simultaneously treat opioid addiction, physical injuries, or psychological conditions.

Stress and Reintegration Challenges

The military lifestyle can bring high-pressure demands, extended deployments, unpredictable schedules, and emotional distress. These stressors can contribute to high-stress levels, anxiety, depression, and low mood in service members and veterans. Some may turn to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism for mental health issues and stress.

How Addiction Treatment Centers Support Military Members and Veterans

Treatment centers that provide specialized rehab programs for veterans and military personnel understand their unique needs and situations. The stigma associated with substance abuse and mental health issues in military members often prevents them from seeking the help and treatment they need.

Addiction treatment facilities understand this fear of stigma or career consequences that personnel may face, emphasizing confidentiality and compassionate care. From trauma-focused care to evidence-based therapies and medication-assisted treatments, these rehabilitation programs are vital lifelines for our service members and veterans.

Specialized Rehab Programs for Veterans

Many drug and alcohol addiction treatment facilities offer tailored programs for their patients, especially for military personnel and veterans. Co-occurring disorders, the coexistence of an SUD and mental illness, are incredibly prevalent among veterans and military service members. Dual diagnosis treatment in drug rehab addresses co-occurring conditions like addiction and PTSD, depression, or anxiety disorders.

Dual diagnosis programs integrate treatments to heal the psychological, emotional, and physical aspects of addiction. Trauma-informed care in military addiction treatment focuses on the physical and psychological combat-related trauma they experience, providing effective treatment and specialized care.

Many treatment facilities incorporate family therapy to help military members and veterans rebuild and restore their relationships. Family counseling in addiction treatment can help individuals strengthen their support systems with their loved ones, further facilitating the recovery process.

Holistic and Evidence-Based Treatments

Addiction treatment programs often combine evidence-based practices and holistic approaches with substance abuse treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a therapeutic approach that addresses a variety of mental and physical health issues in veterans and military personnel. CBT for substance abuse helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns and develop practical coping skills to manage emotions.

Holistic therapies in drug and alcohol rehab often include mindfulness and meditation, yoga, and art therapy. Treatment centers integrate holistic practices to help cope with substance cravings and triggers, reduce stress, and increase self-awareness. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in drug and alcohol rehab can be especially effective for treating military members and veterans with addiction.

Life Skills and Stress Management

In addition to physical and psychological treatments, stress management and life skills can assist in long-term addiction recovery. Palm Beach Gardens Recovery offers practical life tools to help military personnel and veterans cope with the many challenges of civilian life.

Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, journaling, and mindfulness, can help veterans manage distressing emotions for sustained sobriety.

Tricare Coverage for Substance Abuse Treatment

Transitioning from military to civilian life can be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging for service members. Tricare, the Department of Defense’s health care program, helps ensure that military members and veterans access affordable mental health and addiction treatment. Tricare is offered to active-duty service members (ADSMs), their families, former spouses, and veterans.

Addiction treatment centers that accept Tricare insurance help make recovery possible for active-duty personnel, veterans, and military family members struggling with substance abuse.

Military Veterans Addiction Treatment in North Palm Beach, FL

Palm Beach Gardens Recovery proudly offers drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs for military veterans and active-duty service members (ADSMs). From drug detox to outpatient and inpatient care, our military addiction treatment programs are tailored to each individual and their situation.

If you or a loved one are battling addiction or a substance use disorder (SUD), help is available—Contact Palm Beach Gardens Recovery for veterans rehab in Palm Beach Gardens, FL.