How to Offer Support to a Fellow Veteran With an Addiction

Returning to civilian life can pose significant challenges for veterans, and for some, those difficulties may lead to substance abuse or addiction. If you’re worried that a fellow veteran may be struggling, showing them compassion and offering help can make all the difference. Assistance from someone who has shared similar experiences often resonates more powerfully.

Recognizing the Signs of Substance Abuse in Veterans

The first step in offering help is to understand when a fellow veteran might be struggling with addiction. Signs of substance use disorders include:

• Strong cravings for drugs or alcohol
• Unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut back, despite wanting to
• Neglecting work responsibilities because of substance misuse
• Abandoning previously enjoyed activities in favor of using drugs or alcohol
• Engaging in dangerous behaviors while under the influence, such as driving
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using substances
• Building tolerance, requiring higher quantities to feel the same effects

In veterans, these signs might show up differently. For example, someone active in their local veteran community may start distancing themselves, skipping events or ceasing contact with friends. A veteran returning from deployment may isolate themselves instead of reconnecting with family, hiding their substance misuse.

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Veteran Substance Abuse Statistics

Studies examining veteran addiction can produce various findings, but one comprehensive review suggests that 10% of veterans live with an alcohol addiction and 5% struggle with a drug addiction. Some research, however, indicates that these figures could be higher, with up to 32% dealing with alcohol misuse and 20% grappling with drug misuse.

Additional findings on veteran substance abuse include:

• 65% of veterans entering addiction treatment cite alcohol as their primary substance of misuse — a rate double that of the general population.
• Prescription opioid misuse is common among military members, likely due to treating service-related pain.

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Addiction and Co-occurring Disorders in Veterans

It’s not unusual for veterans to experience both addiction and another mental health condition, known as co-occurring disorders. Common co-occurring issues include PTSD, depression and anxiety.

Some key points regarding veterans and co-occurring disorders:

• Veterans with substance use disorders are three to four times more likely than those without to receive a diagnosis of PTSD or depression.
• Among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, 63% of those diagnosed with a substance use disorder also have PTSD.
• About 30% of Army suicides involve alcohol or drug misuse.

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Benefits of Professional Addiction Treatment for Veterans

Seeking professional treatment can help veterans begin healing from substance misuse and reclaim their quality of life. Benefits of a structured program may include:

• Improved mental health: Many programs provide integrated treatment, addressing both addiction and conditions like PTSD or depression.
• Stronger family relationships: Rebuilding connections with a spouse, children and extended family after returning home can be easier with proper support.
• Healthier coping skills: Evidence-based therapies equip veterans with practical strategies for readjusting to civilian life without relying on substances.

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Starting the Conversation

If you believe a fellow veteran needs help, initiating a frank, empathetic discussion can encourage them to seek treatment. Consider these tips:

1. Show empathy: Veterans may hesitate to reach out due to stigma or fear of judgment. Expressing genuine understanding can help them feel comfortable opening up.
2. Be clear and direct: Some veterans appreciate straightforward communication. Point out specific behaviors, such as withdrawing from beloved hobbies or family events.
3. Normalize the struggle: Reminding them that many in the military community face similar challenges can reduce their sense of isolation.

Finding the Right Rehab for Veteran

When assisting a veteran in locating an appropriate treatment center, several factors are worth considering:

• Accepted insurance plans: Confirm that the program works with the veteran’s insurance to lessen out-of-pocket costs. Look for providers in The VA Community Care Network (CCN). The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper is proud to be part of the VA CCN.
• Dual diagnosis capabilities: Because of the high likelihood of co-occurring disorders, a facility should offer comprehensive care for both addiction and mental health.
• Veteran-specific expertise: Programs that provide veteran-focused treatments or employ staff trained in military culture can offer specialized support.
• Trauma-informed care: Facilities that incorporate therapies like EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) or CPT (cognitive processing therapy) are well-suited to address PTSD and related trauma.

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FORTITUDE: Specialized Treatment for Veterans

At various Recovery Village locations, the FORTITUDE program serves veterans by specifically targeting their unique experiences and needs. Highlights of this track include:

• Group therapy sessions exclusively for veterans and first responders
• Integrated treatment for co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders
• Trauma-informed approaches, such as EMDR and CPT, to address PTSD
• Clinicians trained in military culture and veteran-centered care
• Veteran Advocates who coordinate with the VA to ensure veterans receive necessary support

If you or another veteran you know is ready to confront alcohol or drug misuse, The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper stands ready with physician-led, private treatment options tailored to veterans’ specific needs.

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Additional Resources for Veterans

Other helpful resources for veterans seeking addiction or mental health assistance include:

• VA Benefits Hotline: 800-827-1000, available Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. ET
• VA Mental Health Page: Visit the VA’s website for details on treatment options and programs
• National Center for PTSD: Offers research, publications and information about PTSD treatment
• Afterdeployment.org: Provides expert guidance about mental health care and advice on when to seek help

Support from a fellow veteran can be transformative. By learning how to recognize the signs of addiction, engaging in empathetic dialogue and guiding someone toward the right treatment, you can play a pivotal role in helping them find hope and healing. If you’re ready to help or need support yourself, The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper is here to assist you every step of the way.

Addiction Treatment for Veterans at The Recovery Village Cherry Hill

If you’re a military veteran seeking addiction treatment, The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper is here to help. We are a part of the VA Community Care Network, and we offer a trauma-informed program designed for veterans and first responders. Contact a Veteran Advocate today to learn more or to get started with treatment.