According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, veterans have a higher incidence of substance abuse disorder than the general population, with one in 10 veterans meeting that criteria. Those who have undergone multiple deployments, served in combat and been injured in combat are most likely to develop an addiction. Unfortunately, the military’s zero-tolerance policy and the stigmas within the service may keep these veterans from seeking the help they need.
Veterans with opioid addictions can benefit from seeking assistance tailored to their unique circumstances. Programs made for veterans offer support for their needs and may be more effective than programs without this level of detail.
Opioid Addiction for Veterans
According to studies, veterans may turn to opioids to find relief from:
- Physical pain.
- Anxiety.
- Sleep disorders.
Often, military personnel who are hurt in combat are prescribed opioids during their recovery. Opioids can mask the pain from a severe injury, helping service members return to the field more quickly. Those in recovery may feel pressured to curtail their recovery to get back to active duty faster, and they may become reliant on opioids to do so.
Veterans also face challenges returning to civilian life. Things run very differently than in the military, and the lack of structure and change can feel disconcerting to someone used to a rigid structure every day. This adjustment can cause anxiety and trouble sleeping, as worries about the future continue to gnaw.
Unemployment, isolation and homelessness can also be factors in substance use disorder, and these circumstances are common among veterans.
Opioid Addiction Recovery for Veterans
Recovery from opioid addiction involves treating the physical effects of substance use disorder while also addressing the mental aspects. A good treatment program offers support to uncover the causes of addiction, whether that includes trauma from military service, underlying mental health struggles or other factors. Substance use counseling is a critical part of a comprehensive recovery program, along with medication-assisted treatment.
Rebuilding a life after opioid addiction is another critical focus of a good treatment program. At BAART Programs, we focus on the path to recovery and offer ways to change thoughts and behaviors to help veterans stay on that path.
Veterans face different concerns than many others seeking opioid addiction treatment, and remaining cognizant of those issues is critical to long-term recovery. Finding a treatment program that emphasizes individualized care is essential.
Seek Addiction Recovery for Veterans at BAART Programs
BAART Programs provides assistance to people dealing with opioid addiction across the country. We have programs specifically developed for veterans, and we always tailor our approach based on the individual. We want to help you or your loved one through this hard time. Learn more on our blog, then find a location near you and reach out with any questions today.
