In 2015, 1 in 15 veterans had a substance use disorder and they are more likely than civilians to have substance abuse problems with alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs. According to a study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), around 3.7% of service members before the Vietnam War reported substance abuse. Still, recently, 12.7% of members who have served since 2001 reported drug abuse, more than tripling the pre-Vietnam rate.
While other segments of the population might turn to substance abuse for a variety of reasons, veterans often turn to substances like alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs when suffering from difficulties like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and homelessness.
The good news is that if you are a veteran who struggles with substance abuse, you can receive a variety of services, including substance abuse rehab, for free from the VA including help detoxing, treatment in facilities, individual or group therapy, medications, and other services.
We compiled information to walk you through each step of the process – from learning about substance abuse treatment programs to accessing treatment. We also provide additional resources, hotlines, and funding programs to supplement or help make treatment possible.
Most drug abuse issues develop after veterans leave the military because active service members can face dishonorable discharge and even criminal prosecution for a positive drug test.
Illicit drug use by veterans:
The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that overall opioid overdose rates of veterans increased from 14% in 2010 to 21% in 2016.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Abuse are linked
60-80% of veterans with PTSD also have a substance abuse problem
In one study, 60-80% of veteran patients with PTSD also had substance abuse issues. Some veterans self-medicate using drugs and alcohol to deal with the flashbacks and other PTSD symptoms, but drug abuse can worsen the symptoms.
Homeless veterans are likely to abuse substances
70% of homeless veterans struggle with substance abuse
Almost three-quarters of homeless veterans have experienced substance abuse issues. Some researchers believe that the negative view of homelessness contributes to increased substance abuse, and substance abuse then makes it harder for the veteran to hold a steady job.
Chronic pain is often linked to substance abuse issues
33% of veterans in treatment for substance abuse experience chronic pain
One-third of veterans in treatment report persistent pain. Chronic pain can make substance abuse treatment even more challenging because the pain is often treated using prescription drugs (opioids) that are addictive, and if not treated, it can make the additional discomfort of drug detox even worse.
More than one in five female veterans have experienced sexual assault while serving in the military
23% of female veterans have experienced military sexual assault
A quarter of female veterans in outpatient VA treatment experienced sexual assault while in military service. Veterans with a history of sexual assault tend to not respond to substance abuse treatment due to their past trauma.
