Mental Illness, Alcohol Addiction, and Substance Abuse

Veterans who have returned from combat and deployment face a number of challenges as they try to acclimatize to civilian life. Chief among these challenges is coping with the psychological and emotional trauma of their battlefield experiences and the toll it takes on their mental health. Far too many of them turn to alcohol or controlled substances to self-medicate, or deeply suppress their emotions, fears, and struggles and don’t talk about them.  For those who do make it back, the horrors of war are not left on the battlefield. The effects of post-traumatic stress disorder, mental illness, traumatic brain injuries, and combat-related substance abuse are real problems we combat veterans face.

To support military families, the Department of Health and Human Services has compiled a list of helpful resources for veterans and the people who take care of them.

Go to the following link to obtain a Resource List for Veterans and Family Members: http://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/veterans-resources/

Veterans often cope with stress after returning from multiple deployments. They may also suffer from illnesses and injuries that can contribute to a substance use disorder. Addiction delays an already complex social reintegration process and can have negative repercussions. However, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers treatment plans to support veterans as they recover from substance use disorders. Check out DrugRehab.com for more details.

Alcohol Addiction

Alcoholism is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States. Most people with an alcohol use disorder improve with treatment, but less than 10 percent of people with the disease receive treatment. Unfortunately, social stigma and misunderstanding of the disease prevent many people from getting assistance that can help them lead happier, healthier lives.  Should you or someone you know need treatment, contact the folks at DrugRehab.com.

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