Witnessing a person who bravely fought for our country later struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol is heartbreaking. After they have put their life on the line to keep our country safe, the least we can do is ensure that they have access to quality drug detox centers. Treatment can support their physical and mental health needs. Awareness of the relationship between veterans and addiction is the beginning.
The staff at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston is proud to support our nation’s Heroes to help them overcome drug and alcohol addiction. If you or a veteran you love is struggling with addiction, reach out to us at 866.516.8356 to get the help you need to reclaim the life you deserve.
Are Veterans More Susceptible to Opioid Addiction?
Although the opioid crisis is widespread throughout the country, veterans suffer from opioid addiction at a higher rate than civilians. In fact, their rate is almost double the rate of opioid-related deaths. There are several factors to blame, including:
- Veterans are more likely to experience chronic pain due to injuries from combat, making them more likely to take prescription opioids.
- Veterans have a much higher rate of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), especially if they serve in a war. Left untreated, PTSD can lead to self-medication with opioid drugs.
- Veterans may also resort to self-medication when adjusting to life outside of the military. Without a solid support system, they can suffer from anxiety and depression. Opioid drugs may provide relief from their emotional distress.
Life after military service is not always easy to get used to, especially if you do not have the support of loved ones to get you through tough times. Opioid addiction is a significant concern for veterans, so it may be vital that you reach out to a drug detox center if you find yourself abusing opioids.
Why Do So Many Veterans Struggle with Alcohol Addiction?
Those who have never served in the armed forces may wonder why veterans have such a high rate of alcohol addiction. Each veteran may have their own personal reasons for turning to substance use, but some of the common reasons cited include:
- Lack of connection – While active duty, service members are part of a tight-knit group with a common mission. Once they separate from the military, they may struggle to achieve that same level of camaraderie with other civilians.
- Untreated mental health conditions – Some veterans have experienced unspeakable trauma many of us will never face in our lives, often leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Without proper treatment, veterans are at high risk for substance abuse.
- Lack of purpose – Joining the military is an honorable sacrifice one makes to serve and protect their country. Many jobs in the civilian world do not offer that same sense of pride and purpose, leaving veterans feeling somewhat empty inside. Without feeling they are doing something meaningful, some veterans may use substances to numb themselves.
- Financial problems – Some veterans struggle to find work once they leave the military. Sadly, many of them face poverty and homelessness due to inadequate employment opportunities. As is the case for most people, this financial stress can lead to addiction.
Once you understand how leaving the military impacts our country’s veterans, it is easier to see why alcohol addiction is so common.
Find Support at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
If you or someone you love is turning to drugs or alcohol to fill a hole left by departing from the military, you can count on the caring professionals at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston. With our welcoming staff at our drug detox center, you are never alone. We will guide you away from alcohol and opioid drugs and set you back on the path to a happy, fulfilling life. Call us today at 866.516.8356 for the support you need to heal from addiction.
