{"id":1628,"date":"2022-07-12T18:15:18","date_gmt":"2022-07-12T18:15:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/arisetc.com\/?page_id=1628"},"modified":"2022-07-12T18:20:01","modified_gmt":"2022-07-12T18:20:01","slug":"veterans-and-substance-abuse","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/arisetc.com\/veterans-and-substance-abuse\/","title":{"rendered":"Veterans and Substance Abuse"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/span>Substance Abuse and Addiction Among Veterans<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Collectively, we owe our country\u2019s veterans a debt of gratitude for their dedication and service. Our nation\u2019s veterans sacrificed and committed wholly in service to our country. Many risked their lives, willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom and safety. For their sacrifice, they asked nothing in return.<\/p>\n

A veteran\u2019s service does not end when they return home or end their careers with the military. Veterans at the end of their service often face many challenges as they return to civilian life. For too many, overcoming addiction is one of these challenges.<\/p>\n

While there is more research to be done about the connection between veterans and substance abuse, we have some understanding of the role addiction plays in the lives of our country\u2019s service members and veterans. Understanding why substance abuse and addiction are so common among veterans can help clinical providers develop better treatment programs for our nation\u2019s heroes.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Veterans and Substance Abuse: The Numbers<\/span><\/h2>\n

Recent research shows that veterans have a slightly higher rate of substance abuse, especially alcohol abuse, than the general population. While some rates of substance use are falling, several have shown dramatic increases in the last two decades.<\/p>\n

To explore the problematic relationship between veterans and substance abuse, researchers surveyed vast numbers of people who had completed their military service. During their research, they discovered that marijuana use among veterans rose by 50% between 2002 and 2009.[1] This increase could result from the rising popularity of marijuana as states have begun to legalize or decriminalize it. This significant increase may also suggest that more veterans are turning to substances to cope with the effects of their service or to fit into the military culture.<\/p>\n

Because it is widely available, alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances among veterans. Although rehab can be highly effective in helping veterans overcome addiction, researchers estimate that 84% of veterans struggling with alcoholism have not received the treatment they need.[2]<\/p>\n

Of all veterans who entered treatment for a substance use disorder, 10% were in treatment for heroin abuse. About 6% were in treatment for cocaine abuse.<\/p>\n

Research tells us that about 1 in 10 veterans lived with a substance use disorder. This percentage is higher than the general population, suggesting a link between prior military service and substance use.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Understanding the Connection Between Veterans and Addiction<\/span><\/h2>\n

When trying to figure out the best way to treat addiction in any population, it is essential to understand the unique factors that affect the group and how these issues might lead to substance abuse. Veterans have various problems that may contribute to their increased likelihood of developing an addiction to drugs or alcohol.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Pain<\/span><\/h3>\n

In the general population, about 6% of people report regularly experiencing moderate to severe pain. Among veterans, this number is 9%.[3] Veterans may have more pain due to injuries they sustained during their service.\u00a0 Between 2001 and 2009, the rate at which doctors prescribed opioid pain relievers increased by 8%. Higher numbers of veterans experiencing chronic pain may contribute to their likelihood of abusing prescription painkillers or other substances.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)<\/span><\/h3>\n

The CDC reports more than 430,000 veterans have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury.[4] Veterans who suffer a TBI are at an increased risk of developing a substance use disorder. Veterans whose TBI is unidentified or untreated face an even higher risk of becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol. Traumatic brain injury is also closely related to co-occurring health conditions like depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Both of these conditions raise a person\u2019s risk of substance abuse or addiction.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Homelessness<\/span><\/h3>\n

In 2017, veterans made up approximately 9% of the US homeless population, and on any given day, more than 40,000 veterans experience homelessness.[5] Veterans are often at an increased risk of homelessness due to various factors. While substance abuse can make it more likely for a person to experience homelessness, being unhoused makes it more likely that someone will abuse drugs and alcohol.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Stress<\/span><\/h3>\n

Considering the stress of being away from home, experiencing trauma, homelessness, or unemployment, veterans have high stress levels. Post-traumatic stress disorder is common in veterans\u2013even those who do not see combat.\u00a0 Without treatment, PTSD and chronic stress can lead to self-medication and addiction.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Easy Access to Alcohol<\/span><\/h3>\n

Alcohol is often readily available on or near army bases. Many countries where deployed troops are stationed do not have a minimum drinking age, meaning people can drink without supervision when they are 18 or older.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Culture<\/span><\/h3>\n

Many veterans report a culture of drinking and substance abuse among active military members. The culture is vital in this close-knit group. Deployed groups often develop a set of shared values and norms that may be almost impossible to ignore. Sometimes, these practices, including substance abuse, are destructive and interfere with a person\u2019s ability to live a healthy lifestyle.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Difficulty Transitioning Back to Civilian Life<\/span><\/h3>\n

While it is impossible to narrow it down to one reason our veterans live with higher rates of substance abuse and addiction, it is clear that our military vets need more support when they return home from service. Many veterans find it challenging to integrate back into civilian life.<\/p>\n

The stress of service and returning to civilian life, as well as the physical and mental injuries our veterans sustain, deserve more attention. Too many veterans return home without the support they need to succeed. The practical and emotional challenges that occur when readjusting to civilian life may contribute to higher levels of substance abuse and addiction among veterans.\"veteran<\/p>\n

<\/span>The Role of Trauma and PTSD in Veterans with Addiction<\/span><\/h2>\n

A lot of research on PTSD has been done to help us develop effective treatment programs. Post-traumatic stress disorder is common among people who have experienced intense fear or chronic stress\u2013and this includes veterans. Medical and mental health professionals understand that people who have untreated PTSD often develop substance use disorders at a rate that is higher than the general population.<\/p>\n

PTSD used to be called \u201cshell shock\u201d or \u201cbattle fatigue.\u201d For years, medical and mental health providers used these terms to describe the patterns or emotions and behaviors soldiers exhibited after returning home from war. We understand now that trauma is real, treatable, and can occur immediately after the traumatic event–or show up years later. Any traumatic event can result in lingering symptoms of PTSD. Soldiers who have seen combat frequently develop PTSD.<\/p>\n

Even soldiers who are not actively involved in battle may still experience trauma from long periods of anxiety, uncertainty, or intense stress. Trauma can result from simply spending prolonged periods away from home and loved ones. Post-traumatic stress disorder is common after a sexual assault\u2013something that is increasingly relevant as 23% of female soldiers report at least one incident of sexual violence during their time in military service.[5]<\/p>\n

Post-traumatic stress disorder can prevent someone from having a healthy, fulfilling life. It can impair their ability to maintain steady work or develop good relationships with others. Left untreated, PTSD can also lead to substance abuse. The vast majority of research on the subject suggests a strong correlation between veterans with PTSD and drug or alcohol addiction.<\/p>\n

<\/span>Recognizing PTSD<\/span><\/h3>\n

The symptoms of PTSD can appear immediately after the traumatic event or may show up years later. The intensity and severity of the symptoms may change in the period after the trauma. Symptoms of PTSD can include:<\/p>\n