Veteran & First Responder Support Services

Addiction Treatment for Veterans at Willingway

Breaking the Code of Silence: Addressing Addiction Treatment for Veterans

One of the most challenging barriers to addiction treatment for veterans is a persistent code of silence. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Zero-tolerance policies, lack of confidentiality, and mandatory random drug testing that might deter drug use can also add to stigma, and could discourage many who need treatment from seeking it.”

Understanding the Conflict

Military personnel who endure combat exposure, frequent deployments, and service-related injuries are at a significantly higher risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD) or alcohol use disorder (AUD). Yet, many hesitate to seek the help they need.

Here are some common reasons:

  • Fear of Career Consequences: Many service members believe that requesting help for SUD, AUD, or co-occurring mental health issues will negatively impact their military careers. NIDA highlights that “service members can face dishonorable discharge and even criminal prosecution for a positive drug test.”
  • Denial and Avoidance: Some struggle to confront the harsh realities of addiction, its root causes, and the commitment required for treatment, creating a ripple effect that impacts their families and communities.
  • Mistrust and Secrecy: A history of some military branches mishandling SUD concerns has fostered mistrust and reinforced a culture of secrecy and self-reliance.

The result is devastating: according to NIDA, more than 1 in 10 veterans have been diagnosed with SUD, with binge drinking rates among both active military personnel and veterans exceeding those of the general population. Veterans also face compounding issues such as chronic pain, trauma, suicide risk, and homelessness.

Sobering Statistics on Veterans’ Mental Health

  • Between 37% and 50% of Afghanistan and Iraq War veterans have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder.
  • Delayed treatment combined with addiction comorbidity significantly hampers recovery and overall wellness.
  • Deaths from opioid overdoses among veterans increased by 53% between 2010 and 2019.

Veterans’ Unique Struggles with Addiction

Dr. Vance A. Raham, a U.S. Air Force veteran, board-certified addiction medicine specialist, and medical director at Willingway, has observed several critical challenges for military personnel, including:

  • Chronic Pain and PTSD: These often lead to over-reliance on controlled medications.
  • Medication Misuse: Prolonged exposure to certain medications increases the risk of addiction.
  • Functional Decline: Addiction exacerbates social, financial, and interpersonal challenges.

“The greatest misconceptions some active service personnel have about seeking addiction treatment are that asking for help is a weakness and that no one cares about their addiction issues,” Raham explains. “We strive to change these perceptions by showing them we care and helping them understand that it takes more strength to ask for and accept help than to struggle alone.”

Your New Mission: Seek Resources and Care

Courage isn’t just about facing battles on the field—it’s also about confronting personal struggles. Acknowledging the need for help and taking the necessary steps to heal are powerful acts of bravery.

Many veterans now speak openly about PTSD, grief, mental health struggles, and addiction, extending a network of care and support. Examples include:

Addiction Treatment Tailored for Veterans at Willingway

At Willingway, we honor the sacrifices of service members by offering specialized, effective treatment. Through our Tactical Recovery Program, developed in partnership with the nonprofit PsychArmor, we provide culturally competent, trauma-informed care that is evidence-based and tailored to veterans’ needs.

Our program offers:

  • Custom Care Plans: Designed to address the unique challenges of SUD, AUD, and co-occurring conditions like PTSD.
  • Trauma-Informed Environment: A safe space where veterans feel seen, heard, and respected.
  • Aftercare Support: A robust network of ongoing resources in your hometown to sustain recovery for a lifetime.

Take the First Step

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to face it alone. At Willingway, we provide the support and care you need to move forward. Contact us today to learn more about the Tactical Recovery Program and how we can help you achieve long-lasting recovery and well-being.

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