In 2015, 1 in 15 veterans had a substance use disorder and they are more likely than civilians to have substance abuse problems with alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs. According to a study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), around 3.7% of service members before the Vietnam War reported substance abuse. Still, recently, 12.7% of members who have served since 2001 reported drug abuse, more than tripling the pre-Vietnam rate.

While other segments of the population might turn to substance abuse for a variety of reasons, veterans often turn to substances like alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs when suffering from difficulties like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and homelessness.

The good news is that if you are a veteran who struggles with substance abuse, you can receive a variety of services, including substance abuse rehab, for free from the VA including help detoxing, treatment in facilities, individual or group therapy, medications, and other services.

We compiled information to walk you through each step of the process – from learning about substance abuse treatment programs to accessing treatment. We also provide additional resources, hotlines, and funding programs to supplement or help make treatment possible.

Veterans Substance Abuse

Most drug abuse issues develop after veterans leave the military because active service members can face dishonorable discharge and even criminal prosecution for a positive drug test.

Illicit drug use by veterans:

• 12.8% use marijuana
• 3.9% use psychotherapeutic drugs
• 1.1% use cocaine
• 0.5% use methamphetamine
• 0.3% use heroin
• 0.2% use inhalants

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that overall opioid overdose rates of veterans increased from 14% in 2010 to 21% in 2016.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Abuse are linked