When it comes to addiction recovery, certain groups of people sometimes face different sets of unique challenges. Veterans, for example, have shared experiences that might cause them to feel separate from others seeking recovery. These include the potential for military-related trauma and difficulties transitioning back to civilian life. Veterans’ treatment programs are developed to meet military personnel’s needs and help heal some of the traumas that active duty members may have faced. Evoke Wellness has the resources you need if you or a loved one has served in the military and is seeking a veterans treatment program.
Veterans in Recovery
Although many professionals understand addiction as a disease today, many who suffer from substance use disorders still face a stigma. This can be especially true for those veterans in addiction recovery. Rigorous training and high-stress environments can create a culture of self-sufficiency and higher expectations for “success.” If someone in the military suffers from an addiction, they might feel ashamed or not listened to when asking for help. A veteran’s treatment program can allow that shame to dissipate and teach one to replace it with understanding and connection.
Trauma is understood to be an underlying cause of many addictions. Many veterans face substantial trauma and can find fellowship and understanding in a program that addresses those experiences specifically. Professionals treating veterans can help their patients dig deeper and offer them tools to cope with daily life after their challenges. Additional benefits of a veterans treatment program include:
- Treatment of co-occurring disorders specific to veterans
- Professionals trained to treat military trauma
- No fear of being seen as weak for seeking help
- Surrounded by peers who have similar struggles
- Military insurance benefits often cover treatment
Recovery is different for each person. Not every veteran will need the same treatments and therapies. Having professionals who know how to treat common substance use disorders faced by the military makes it easier for veterans to get to the bottom of their addiction and begin healing.
Advice for Veterans in Recovery
If you or someone you love needs addiction recovery, the experts at Evoke Wellness have some advice for veterans.
1. Seek out resources specifically designed for veterans
Many organizations and resources are specifically designed to support veterans in addiction recovery. These may include VA hospitals and treatment centers, military-specific recovery groups, and programs offering veterans support and resources.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
It’s never easy to ask for help with an addiction. Many veterans may be hesitant to seek help due to the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health issues. It’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength and that many resources are available to support veterans in recovery.
3. Consider incorporating self-care practices into your recovery
Self-care is an essential aspect of any recovery journey and can help veterans in addiction recovery to manage stress or symptoms of PTSD and maintain their sobriety. Some self-care practices that may be helpful for veterans include exercise, meditation, and hobbies such as art or music — finding ways to cope with daily life after the military is one of the essential things that veterans in recovery can learn. It can become a valuable, long-term benefit.
Evoke Wellness Supports Veterans in Recovery
At Evoke Wellness, we understand the importance of serving each person’s specific needs. Veterans in addiction recovery need to seek out resources and support specifically designed for them, and we strive to offer the resources that can help. Veterans deserve the best possible care, and we are committed to ensuring that we have that care available. Contact us today at 866.931.9312 to learn more.
