Substance abuse is the excessive use of alcohol, drugs, or the improper usage of over-the Counter or prescription medications. The individual who suffers from substance abuse may need professional substance abuse help. There are many programs, including private treatment centers, support groups, and rehabilitation and education programs, that can help individuals suffering from substance abuse problems. Learn to spot substance abuse and seek treatment for substance abuse today.
Many service organizations offer substance abuse help for veterans. Many former soldiers suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to their time in the military. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a large number of benefits for former soldiers with substance abuse problems. The Department of Veterans Affairs also offers mental health counseling and other mental health services, including outpatient programs and centers that provide on-site psychiatric care. Many former soldiers have found mental health services and substance abuse help through the VA. Substance abuse can negatively impact mental health and ability to cope with life, so getting help from a VA may be the best choice for veterans struggling with mental health issues.
Substance abuse can often be difficult to detect, because it is often used in the context of another disease or illness. Unfortunately, there are often hidden conditions that may require treatment for addiction, such as alcoholism. Many times, the symptoms of substance abuse can mirror or even cause the underlying condition. For this reason, substance abuse help is often needed when a person has an existing mental health condition. Alcohol treatment centers offer a variety of mental health treatments and substance abuse treatment for people who are suffering from alcoholism.
Some of the common conditions treated at substance abuse help centers include bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and many others. Many of these conditions are associated with drug abuse, which can bring about a number of problems in its treatment. The severity of a patient’s addiction can be a big factor in the effectiveness of a drug rehab program. An extremely severe case can require inpatient treatment, while a less severe condition can be handled by outpatient programs or drug rehab centers that work with you on an individualized treatment plan.
Veterans looking for substance abuse help should first check to see if their doctor or any VA medical facility offers inpatient substance abuse treatment programs. If so, it is important to find a program that works with the guidelines of the VA, which involve several different criteria for qualifying patients. A good substance abuse treatment program will consider the patient’s needs and any co-morbid conditions, they may already have.
Many veterans struggle with mental health issues, but there are plenty of treatment options available through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Substance abuse can be treated effectively and with a high rate of success in a great majority of cases. To get help from the VA or a qualified mental health care facility, it is important to know where to turn. If you believe a veteran you know needs help, there is no reason to keep it secret. Contact your nearest local VA office or visit the website of the Department of Veterans Affairs for more information.
