Having a Veterans addiction is something that many veterans struggle with, but there are treatment options available to them. There are several types of addictions that veterans can suffer from, and some of these include Alcohol abuse, PTSD, Co-occurring disorders, and more. These types of addictions are discussed in this article.
Alcohol abuse
During the course of their military service, veterans are exposed to a wide variety of stressors. These stressors can lead to physical and mental health problems, including alcohol abuse.
Veterans who serve in the military can also face a variety of challenges at home. They may find themselves in unstable jobs, have financial problems, and may not have a support system. This can create additional stress in their lives.
Whether a veteran is currently serving or has just finished their service, there are resources available to help them recover from alcohol abuse. These resources can provide tools for sobriety and can also provide encouragement when times get tough.
Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) are characterized by a person's tendency to drink more than they should, despite the negative consequences. Alcohol abuse can be caused by an underlying mental health disorder, such as PTSD. In addition, a veteran may be more at risk for alcohol abuse if they had a history of addiction or if they had a physical injury during their service.
Co-occurring disorders
PTSD and substance use disorder co-occur in many veterans. These disorders have a direct impact on the lives of Veterans and can interfere with their work, social, and family lives. Treatment options are available for veterans who suffer from both disorders. Whether it is to reduce symptoms of PTSD, address substance abuse, or both, treatment centers are equipped to help Veterans lead productive and meaningful lives.
One in three Veterans with substance use disorder (SUD) also suffers from PTSD. The number of Veterans with both disorders increased by threefold over the past ten years. A new initiative has been launched to better track SUD and PTSD among Veterans. These patients can benefit from cognitive processing therapy and trauma-focused PTSD treatment.
According to the National Comorbidity Institute, 27 percent of women and 35 percent of men with PTSD also suffer from substance use disorder. This figure is higher than the general population.
Veterans with both disorders are at a high risk for substance abuse, which can intensify symptoms of PTSD. Symptoms of withdrawal also amplify the negative emotions experienced when dealing with PTSD.
Treatment options
Fortunately, there are treatment options for veterans addiction. These programs can be used for both mental and physical disorders. These include treatment for PTSD, substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders. These programs are designed to meet the needs of each veteran.
One of the most common substances used by veterans is alcohol. It serves as a numbing agent, relieves stress, and provides temporary relief from symptoms of mental illness. Alcohol can also worsen symptoms of PTSD.
In addition to alcohol, veterans can also become addicted to other substances. These substances can include opioids, heroin, and pills. These drugs are often used to treat injuries from combat.
Veterans who have experienced traumatic events during their military service can be at high risk for substance abuse. These events can cause PTSD, which is characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and irritability.
PTSD can affect veterans of all ages, and it can take time to recover. It is important for veterans to get treatment as soon as possible. There are treatment options for veterans addiction available at the VA. These programs offer high quality care.
