As we honor our nation’s veterans this Veterans Day, it’s important to recognize the battles some veterans face long after their service ends—particularly with addiction. For many veterans, substance use disorders represent an invisible war that can persist for years. At River Rocks Recovery in Middletown, Ohio, we understand these unique challenges and offer specialized addiction treatment tailored to veterans, including Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs. This Veterans Day, join us in supporting veterans who served our country and are now seeking help to reclaim their lives. Take the first step and contact us today at (888) 905-6281.
Veterans Day: Honoring Service and Sacrifice
Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is dedicated to honoring all who served in the U.S. military. Originally known as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, it became a day to recognize the sacrifices and resilience of veterans across all branches. It’s a time to show gratitude for their bravery and to acknowledge the ongoing challenges many veterans face, including mental health issues and addiction.
The Link Between Military Service and Addiction
Military service often involves experiences that can have lasting impacts on mental health, including trauma, stress, and injuries. Many veterans face conditions such as PTSD and chronic pain, which can lead to substance use as a coping mechanism. Studies show that nearly 1 in 10 veterans struggle with a substance use disorder, and veterans with PTSD are particularly susceptible to addiction. At River Rocks Recovery, we specialize in dual-diagnosis treatment that addresses both mental health and addiction, ensuring a comprehensive approach to recovery.
Understanding Addiction in Veterans
Unique Challenges and Factors
Veterans face unique challenges that increase their risk of substance abuse and addiction. Exposure to combat, traumatic events, and high-stress environments can lead to conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety disorders. According to a recent study, approximately 16.8% of Ohio’s drug rehab centers specifically cater to veterans, recognizing their specialized needs.
Dual Diagnosis and Comprehensive Care
Co-occurring mental health issues are prevalent among veterans struggling with addiction. 49.5% of Ohio’s facilities offer dual diagnosis treatment, addressing both substance use disorders and conditions like PTSD or depression. This integrated approach ensures comprehensive care tailored to veterans’ unique experiences and challenges.
Accessible Treatment Options
Ohio’s addiction treatment landscape prioritizes accessibility for veterans. 92.2% of facilities accept Medicaid, and 70.2% offer sliding scale fees, making treatment more financially viable. Many places provide veteran-focused services, including inpatient detox, residential care, and outpatient programs. Certain treatment centers like River Rocks Recovery accept medicaid and medicare.
Specialized Treatment Programs for Veterans at River Rocks Recovery
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Designed for veterans seeking a structured approach with flexibility, our IOP provides access to therapy sessions, group support, and skill-building workshops that empower veterans to address addiction while maintaining daily responsibilities.
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): For those needing a more immersive approach, our PHP offers a supportive, structured environment with daily therapy and medical support. PHP is ideal for veterans requiring intensive care to address both trauma and addiction.
- Outpatient Program (OP): For veterans who may need a less intensive approach, our OP allows clients to attend therapy and counseling sessions at a pace that fits their schedules. The outpatient program is ideal for veterans who have completed higher levels of care or are managing milder addiction challenges, providing continued support and resources as they transition back into their daily lives.
- 12-Step Facilitation: Veterans often find solidarity in 12-step programs, where they connect with others facing similar challenges. Our 12-step facilitation provides a framework of accountability and camaraderie that supports long-term recovery.
- Family Therapy: Addiction affects families, and reintegration can be challenging for veterans and their loved ones. Our family therapy sessions focus on rebuilding trust, improving communication, and strengthening family bonds for lasting recovery.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy: Trauma-informed care is essential in veteran addiction treatment. Using therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), we help veterans process trauma in a safe, supportive environment.
The Connection Between PTSD and Substance Abuse in Veterans
Higher Risk & Prevalence
Veterans are at much higher risk of developing both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders (SUDs) compared to the general population. Studies estimate that 74% of Vietnam veterans and 63% of Iraq/Afghanistan veterans with an SUD diagnosis also had PTSD. Around 46.4% of those with PTSD have a lifetime SUD diagnosis, with even higher rates among female veterans (27.9%) and male veterans (51.9%).
Cycle of Avoidance
PTSD can create issues like sleep problems, emotional numbness, anger, and depression – which are often worsened by drug and alcohol use. Substance abuse can also allow veterans to continue avoiding trauma memories and feelings, preventing progress in PTSD treatment. This cycle maintains both disorders.
Connection & Treatment
The majority of veterans perceive their PTSD symptoms as directly related to increased substance use. Addressing PTSD is crucial, as most report a decrease in PTSD symptoms leads to reduced substance use as well. Effective treatment involves trauma-focused psychotherapies like CPT and PE, combined with SUD treatments like relapse prevention and medication. Integrated care addressing both issues concurrently is preferred by most veterans.
Co-occurring Mental Health Issues
Between 82-93% of veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq with an SUD had at least one co-occurring mental health disorder like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. Nearly 25% of veterans have PTSD, and those with SUDs are 3-4 times more likely to be diagnosed with it.
Conclusion
As you reflect on Veterans Day, remember the ongoing battle many veterans face with addiction and mental health challenges. The statistics are sobering, but there is hope. River Rocks Recovery in Middletown, Ohio stands ready to support veterans struggling with alcohol, drug use, substance abuse, and opiate addiction. Through comprehensive mental health therapy, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), River Rocks provides the specialized care veterans need to reclaim their lives. This Veterans Day, honor those who served by spreading awareness about addiction issues and available treatment options. Together, we can ensure our veterans receive the support and care they’ve earned through their sacrifice and service to our nation. Take the first step and contact us today at (888) 905-6281.
