Honoring Our Heroes: Reducing Stigma Around Veteran Substance Misuse

Ashland County is home to about 3,400 US Military Veterans – courageous men and women who have selflessly served our country, often facing unimaginable challenges and dangers to protect our freedoms. As a nation, we owe them our deepest gratitude and unwavering support. 

However, many Veterans, particularly those who have experienced combat, struggle with the invisible wounds of trauma and mental health issues, which can lead to substance misuse as a means of coping. In fact, according to the National Institute of Health’s National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than 1 in 10 Veterans struggle with substance misuse disorders.

The negative impacts of substance misuse among Veterans extends from the individual outward to their families and communities. Substance misuse can lead to increased domestic violence, child abuse, homelessness, and involvement in the criminal justice system.

“It is extremely important for Veterans who have problems with alcohol use, substance use, or problem gambling, to reach out for assistance,” shared Kevin J. Smith, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, and Chief of the Veterans Addiction Recovery Center (VARC), VA Northeast Ohio Health Care System.

“The VA Northeast Ohio Health Care System has programs that are specifically designed to assess and treat Veterans with these addiction issues. The Veterans who we treat with addiction issues often have co-occurring medical and/or mental health issues that are often neglected during the times that the Veteran is active with their addiction. The VA provides a non-judgmental environment that ensures that Veterans are treated with dignity and respect while we provide services that treat the Veteran’s addiction, medical, and mental health problems in a comprehensive and evidence-based manner.”

Addressing substance misuse among Veterans is not just a matter of health, but a solemn duty to honor their service and sacrifice by providing the care and compassion they so rightly deserve.

Accessing Treatment for Veterans Struggling with Substance Misuse in Ashland County

One of the most difficult barriers to overcome when it comes to seeking treatment for substance misuse is simply overcoming the stigma around seeking help. This can be particularly challenging for Veterans.

Here are a few important reminders you can share with the Veterans in your life: 

• “You aren’t alone.” It can be helpful to remind the Veterans in your life about their support network. ACCADA can connect Veterans with others who have gone through similar experiences.

• “Seeking help is strength, not weakness.” Recognize the Veteran for the courage it takes to admit when we need help. Pursuing recovery might be the bravest thing they’ve ever done.
• “Your friends and family believe in you.” Remind the Veteran of the loved ones who want the very best for them and are here to support them along this road.

The more we can do to reduce the stigma surrounding substance misuse and mental illness, the better we’ll be able to care for the men and women who have served our country.

There is a strong connection between mental health issues like PTSD, depression, and anxiety and substance misuse. Integrated treatment programs that address both mental health and substance misuse are important for effective rehabilitation. Integrated, holistic treatment programs may include such services as medical treatment, counseling, peer support, and social services. 

There are resources to support Veterans who are struggling with substance misuse in Ashland County. The team at ACCADA can help you or your loved one connect with local support as well as Veterans’ resources in neighboring counties that specialize in providing treatment and recovery support for our Veterans.

We understand the unique sacrifice and lingering challenges that may come with having served in the military. Connect with us or visit the Ohio Cares resource map to find resources to support your recovery efforts. The ACCADA team can help you take the first step toward a healthy and drug-free life.