Alcohol abuse is prevalent among military veterans for many reasons. The effects of long-term heavy drinking range from organ damage to mental health challenges and include quality of life difficulties such as job and relationship loss. Veterans who have served their country deserve to live a healthy life free of the ravages of alcohol use disorder (AUD). The best and most reliable way for former military personnel to begin recovery from an AUD is an alcohol rehab for veterans.
UpArmor Recovery offers evidence-based alcohol addiction treatment for veterans provided by experienced professionals in a safe setting. To learn how veteran alcohol rehab works, what steps are necessary to get started, and how UpArmor Recovery can help you begin your journey, reach out today. Our phone number is 855.211.5537, or you can submit our online form to connect.
Alcohol Use Disorder Among Veterans
Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance among veterans. Some of the factors that play into the prevalence of AUD among this population are listed below:
- A culture of drinking – Active-duty service members drink because it is perceived as part of the culture and as a way to socialize and connect. Many military personnel are already heavy drinkers when they are discharged.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – Anyone who experiences trauma can develop symptoms of PTSD, but veterans are at greater risk than the general population. Military combat, a traumatic injury, or physical, psychological, or sexual abuse can all affect veterans. PTSD causes flashbacks, panic disorders, and night terrors. It often co-occurs with alcohol abuse and addiction.
- Depression and anxiety – Even without a diagnosis of PTSD, many veterans suffer from major depression or an anxiety disorder. Self-medicating by drinking alcohol, which is already viewed by many veterans as a normal part of daily life, is all too common and can easily lead to tolerance, dependence, and, finally, addiction.
- Difficulties adjusting to civilian life – The challenges faced by veterans as they try to re-enter post-deployment life are many. Suddenly they are without the structure and camaraderie of the military, needing to find and hold down a job or return to school to complete an education, and attempting to return to relationships with family, friends, and significant others while managing possible mental health symptoms. All of this can be disorienting and overwhelming. Alcohol can mask these stressors for a while but soon may become a new problem in itself.
It is imperative that veterans struggling with all the challenges they face receive quality alcohol treatment. Veteran alcohol treatment will ensure a strong start to recovery.
Alcohol Treatment for Veterans
It is important that veterans have access to evidence-based substance abuse treatment provided by professionals who understand their unique circumstances and the myriad obstacles they face re-entering civilian life.
The following are among the most beneficial elements to look for when seeking professional alcohol addiction treatment for veterans:
Medical Detox
Alcohol withdrawal can be difficult and sometimes dangerous. Avoid the worst discomforts as well as relapse by enrolling in a veteran alcohol rehab that offers medically supervised alcohol detox.
Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders
Because it is so common for a veteran to have a mental health condition at the same time as a SUD, finding a treatment center that can offer co-occurring disorder treatment for both is important.
Evidence-Based Therapies
Look for rehab programs that offer proven alcohol addiction treatments backed by research. For example:
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Community reinforcement and family training (CRAFT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Motivational enhancement therapy (MET)
- Motivational interviewing
Many outpatient alcohol treatment centers offer holistic options that integrate with evidence-based therapies for a well-rounded approach.
Peer Support
The support of peers has been proven to improve outcomes. The strong bonding that takes place among those in the military can be difficult to lose upon discharge. The connections made in rehab with other veterans dealing with the same challenges you are will enhance the success of your recovery.
Group and Family Therapy
Both of these involve a licensed therapist leading therapeutic sessions for more than one person. The group can be other veterans, or it can be your family support network. Re-learning how to be in a relationship with others after alcohol addiction has eroded these skills is important. Having the accountability of the group while working through issues is also very helpful.
Aftercare Program
A program that eases the transition back into daily life as a sober person offers a leg-up. Ongoing therapy and 12-step opportunities, sober socializing, and ongoing connections to your peer support group are all benefits of an aftercare program.
UpArmor Recovery Offers Veteran Alcohol Rehab in Mississippi
If you are ready to begin recovery and are looking for alcohol treatment for veterans, learn more about UpArmor Recovery and how we can help you. Let us answer your questions and put your mind at ease about the process. Call us today by dialing 855.211.5537 or reach out via the online form.