Generally speaking, military veterans are placed at an increased risk for excessive use of drugs and alcohol and eventually developing substance use disorders by the very nature of their roles. Drinking alcohol and smoking are both cultural norms in military service, even though military officials are trying to discourage this. The causes of substance use in veterans are many, and it’s important to understand them and why a veterans addiction support program can be the best way to achieve a successful recovery.
5 Causes of Substance Use in Veterans
Veterans are often exposed to unique challenges during and after their service, making them more vulnerable to substance use disorders (SUDs) than the average person. Here are five key causes:
1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Nearly 25% of veterans are diagnosed with PTSD at some point. The trauma of combat, life-threatening situations, and even sexual assaults during service can lead to lasting mental scars. Veterans with PTSD are three to four times more likely to develop an SUD, often turning to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate.
2. Chronic Pain
Many veterans come home with service-related injuries and chronic conditions. Nearly 41,000 veterans were diagnosed with painkiller addictions in a single year. Opioids, which are prescribed for pain, often lead to dependency if used over long periods without proper management.
3. Mental Health Disorders
Depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges are prevalent among veterans. Between 37% and 50% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan struggle with mental illness. Substance use becomes a coping mechanism for many, aggravating their conditions.
4. Difficulty Adjusting to Civilian Life
Coming back to civilian life can be overwhelming. Veterans might struggle with identity, financial burdens, or relationship troubles, leading to stress and, often, substance abuse. These issues compound if veterans feel isolated from the civilian population.
5. Military Culture and Stigma
The normalized use of alcohol during service can carry over into veteran life, turning occasional drinking into alcoholism for many. Additionally, stigma around seeking help often prevents veterans from addressing early signs of addiction.
Statistics on Substance Use Disorder in Veterans
The statistics around veteran substance abuse highlight the severe impact of addiction within this population:
- More than 80% of veterans with SUDs abuse alcohol, and nearly 27% use illicit drugs.
- Among veterans entering treatment, 65% cite alcohol as their primary substance of concern, double the rate of civilians.
- Young veterans are also affected, with 25,000 veterans aged 18–25 reported to have alcohol use disorders in a single year.
- Veterans who return with co-occurring disorders, such as PTSD and SUDs, comprise 63% of those deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan.
- Veterans with SUDs are 1.5 times more likely to relapse if they only undergo detox rather than full rehabilitation.
These statistics from veteranaddiction.org clearly show that substance abuse isn’t just an individual challenge for veterans but a widespread issue requiring attention and tailored care.
Do Veterans Find Addiction Treatment?
Despite the prevalence of SUDs in veterans, many do not seek or find adequate treatment. For example, only 35% of veterans with opioid use disorders at VA facilities receive medication-assisted treatment. Barriers include:
- Fear of judgment: Many worry about being stigmatized or seen as weak for seeking help.
- Logistical challenges: Long wait times, lack of transportation, and difficulty accessing services in rural areas hinder treatment opportunities.
- Complex systems: Veterans can face obstacles navigating the VA healthcare system and understanding how to access benefits.
Compounding these challenges, some veterans have negative perceptions or past experiences with VA care, further reducing their likelihood of seeking treatment. This highlights the urgent need for accessible, veteran-specific addiction programs.
How to Find Addiction Treatment for Veterans
Finding a treatment program starts with understanding veterans’ unique needs. Dedicated organizations, including the VA and private facilities, offer recovery resources. Here are some steps:
- Begin with insurance verification: Veterans can check their insurance coverage through VA benefits or private providers.
- Explore VA facilities and other programs: Investigate both local and national treatment options targeting veterans. Currently, there are 935 programs in the U.S., 107 of which are VA facilities.
- Seek evidence-based care: Veterans can benefit from therapies tailored to co-occurring disorders like PTSD and addiction. Medication-assisted treatment and programs that address the reintegration into civilian life are essential.
Family members and loved ones can also support veterans by helping them research and connect with a suitable program. Timely intervention can save lives.
The Veterans Program at Landmark Recovery
Landmark Recovery understands the causes of substance use in veterans and the unique challenges they face in recovery. We focus on addressing both the root causes of addiction and veterans’ specific needs to achieve sustainable recovery.
The program offers:
- Comprehensive care: Veterans receive 40 hours of evidence-based group and individual therapy each week. This extensive approach ensures that both mental health and addiction are addressed.
- Educational tools for long-term success: Landmark focuses on providing veterans with the knowledge and skills to thrive after treatment.
- Highly trained staff: With therapists and medical staff rooted in clinical expertise, Landmark ensures that veterans feel supported, safe, and understood throughout their treatment.
Through personalized plans, veterans can work on repairing relationships, reintegrating into civilian life, and gaining the tools necessary for lasting sobriety.
Why Veterans Should Choose Landmark Recovery
If you’re a veteran struggling with addiction, know that you’re not alone. Substance use disorder doesn’t have to define your future, and programs like those at Landmark Recovery can help you reclaim your life.
At Landmark Recovery, you’re not just treated for addiction—you’re seen for the hero that you are. Our mission is to transform lives and unlock each person’s potential, empowering veterans to find peace beyond addiction. Call Landmark Recovery today at 888-964-6828 or use our online contact form and take the first step toward a healthier future.
Choose Recovery Over Addiction
We're here 24/7 to help you get the care you need to live life on your terms, without drugs or alcohol. Talk to our recovery specialists today and learn about our integrated treatment programs.
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