VA Alcohol Rehab

VA Alcohol Rehab for Military Members and Veterans

For many people who have served in the military, the things they have experienced in their line of work can lead them to substance use and addiction. In many cases, their drug or alcohol problems can make them incapable of carrying out their duties, as well as impact various other aspects of their lives.

Fortunately, The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers various alcohol and drug rehab services, amongst various other healthcare options, to those service members and their family members who are struggling with a substance use disorder.

Keep reading to learn more about VA alcohol rehab and how these services can help you overcome your alcohol or drug abuse, as well as how the Find Addiction Rehabs team can help you get started at a treatment program that is right for you.

Veteran Affairs Benefits for Service Members

The VA offers a wide range of benefits to service members as means of ensuring that they continue to receive the support they need, whether they remain in active duty or are in retirement. Some of these services include:

• Health care: VA provides health care to veterans who served on active duty for at least 24 months, or who were discharged due to a service-related disability. VA health care is free for veterans with service-connected disabilities, and may be available at a reduced cost for other veterans.
• Disability compensation: VA pays monthly compensation to veterans who have a service-connected disability that prevents them from working or that makes it difficult for them to work. The amount of compensation a veteran receives is based on the severity of their disability.
• Education and training: VA offers a variety of education and training benefits to many veterans, including the GI Bill, which can be used to pay for tuition, fees, books, and supplies at a college or university.
• Housing assistance: VA provides housing assistance to homeless veterans and those who have difficulty affording housing. This assistance can include grants, loans, and rental assistance.
• Veterans’ pensions: VA pays a monthly pension to veterans who are at least 65 years old and who have limited income and assets.
• Other benefits: VA also offers a variety of other benefits to veterans, including home loans, burial assistance, and veterans’ outreach and recreation programs.

The Relationship Between Military Members and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

While it is normal to have upsetting memories, feel on edge, or have trouble sleeping after this type of event, if these symptoms last more than a few weeks, it may be PTSD. Military members are at an increased risk of developing PTSD and other psychological problems compared to the general population.

This is because they are more likely to be exposed to traumatic events, such as combat, explosions, military sexual trauma, and the death or injury of fellow soldiers. For many people, their symptoms can be debilitating and can lead them down a very dark and self-destructive path.

PTSD and Substance Abuse

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse are two very common mental health conditions that often co-occur. In fact, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 1 in 5 military members with PTSD also have a substance abuse disorder.

There are a number of reasons why PTSD and substance abuse often go hand-in-hand. For one, people with PTSD often experience intense emotions, such as fear, anxiety, and anger. These emotions can be very difficult to cope with, and some people may turn to drug or alcohol abuse as a way to numb or escape from them.

Substance abuse can also make PTSD symptoms worse. For example, alcohol can worsen nightmares and flashbacks, and it can also make it difficult to concentrate and make decisions. This can make it even more difficult for people with PTSD and other mental health issues to cope with their symptoms and lead to a vicious cycle of comorbidity.

If you are struggling with PTSD and substance abuse, it is important to seek professional help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) states that, with the right treatment, service members can learn how to cope with their PTSD symptoms without resorting to substances, and can live full and productive lives.

VA Alcohol Rehab and Drug Addiction Treatment Programs

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a variety of alcohol rehab programs to help veterans who are struggling with alcohol addiction. These treatment centers can be inpatient or outpatient, and they offer a variety of services, including counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and emotional support groups.

Some of the VA’s alcohol rehab programs include:

• Inpatient alcohol rehab: This type of program provides 24-hour care and supervision, which can be helpful for those struggling with co-occurring disorders, withdrawal symptoms, and other factors that can complicate their recovery process. Veterans who participate in inpatient alcohol rehab typically stay for 30-90 days.
• Outpatient alcohol rehab: This type of program allows veterans to continue living at home while they receive treatment. Outpatient alcohol rehab programs typically last for 12-18 weeks. This may include individual therapy, family therapy, group counseling, and other services.
• Vet Centers: Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that offer a variety of services to veterans, including alcohol rehab. Vet Centers are a good option for veterans who may not be able to travel to a VA medical center for treatment, but need care specialized to their military experience.

The VA also offers a variety of support groups for veterans who are struggling with alcohol addiction. These groups can provide veterans with a safe place to share their experiences and learn from others who are going through the same thing.

If you are a veteran who is struggling with alcohol addiction, there is help available. The VA has a variety of alcohol rehab programs and support groups that can help you get on the road to recovery. The Find Addiction Rehabs team can also help you find a treatment facility that can handle your specific addiction recovery needs.

The Drawbacks of Attending Your Local VA Medical Center

While VA programs can be helpful for service members who abuse alcohol and other drugs, it is important to keep in mind that these are often state-funded programs. Particularly when recovering from an alcohol use disorder, this process can bring with it medical emergencies and a high risk for relapse.

Those who have gone through military service need a different level of emotional and social support than is typically provided through state-funded programs. These facilities typically have fewer amenities than private rehab programs. While these amenities are not essential for recovery, they can make the experience more enjoyable and comfortable.

Limiting your search to VA alcohol rehab services can limit you from accessing the various forms of specialized and comprehensive treatment options.  Private rehab programs can give you access to more extensive care including an individualized treatment plan, evidence-based and holistic therapies, and medical support to ensure safety and promote long-term recovery.

What are the Benefits of Private Rehab?

Private rehab centers offer a number of benefits that can be helpful for people struggling with addiction, especially those who have served in the military and are likely struggling with other co-occurring conditions. These benefits include:

• More individualized care: Private rehab centers have smaller staff-to-client ratios, which means that clients receive more individualized attention from their treatment team. This can be especially beneficial for people with complex addiction issues or co-occurring mental health conditions.
• More flexible treatment plans: Private rehab centers can tailor treatment plans to the specific needs of each client. This allows clients to focus on the areas of their addiction that are most challenging and to receive the most effective treatment.
• Greater privacy: Private rehab centers offer a more confidential setting than public rehab centers. This can be important for people who are concerned about their privacy or who may have been stigmatized for their addiction.
• More amenities: Private rehab centers often offer a wider range of amenities than public rehab centers. This can include things like private rooms, gourmet meals, and on-site fitness centers.

No matter what treatment option you decide to choose, it is important to know how to make the right decision. Fortunately, there are ways of making sure that you are making the right choice in terms of treatment.

Finding the Right Treatment Program

Choosing the right rehab program can be a daunting task. There are so many different options available, and it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few tips to help you find the right program for you:

• Do your research: There are many different types of rehab programs, so it’s important to do your research and find one that is a good fit for your individual needs. Consider the type of addiction you are struggling with, the level of care you need, and your budget.
• Get help from a professional: If you are struggling to find the right rehab program, you can get help from a professional. The Find Addiction Rehabs team can help you assess your needs and find a program that is right for you.
• Consider your insurance coverage: If you have health insurance, it is important to find out if your insurance will cover the cost of rehab. Some insurance plans will cover a portion of the cost, while others will cover the entire cost.
• Visit the program in person: Once you have found a few potential programs, it can help to visit them in person. This will give you a chance to see the facilities and meet the staff. It will also give you a chance to ask any questions you may have.
• Trust your gut: When it comes down to it, you need to trust your gut and choose a program that feels right for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get second opinions.

Combining Addiction and Mental Health Treatment

Combining addiction and mental health treatment is essential for people with co-occurring disorders. This type of treatment can help people address both of their conditions and improve their overall well-being.

No matter what the cause, it is important to treat both mental health and addiction problems in order to achieve long-term recovery. When these conditions are treated separately, the chances of relapse are much higher.

There are a number of different ways to combine mental health and addiction treatment. One option is to attend a treatment program that specializes in dual diagnosis. These programs offer a comprehensive approach to treatment that addresses both mental health and addiction issues.

Another option is to see a therapist who is qualified to treat both mental health and addiction problems. This type of therapist can help you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

No matter how you go about finding the right treatment for all of your recovery needs, being informed and understanding the type of care you need is the first step in the right direction. The Find Addiction Rehabs team can help you navigate this process and find the right rehab services for all of your needs.

Start Your Recovery from Alcohol Today!

If you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol use, the Find Addiction Rehabs team can help connect you with the help you need. Substance use disorders can be hard to overcome, but with the right support, recovery is possible.

We can help you find a drug and alcohol rehab program that is capable of providing all of your care needs. You can contact our 24/7 hotline anytime to find out more information about the treatment process. Call now to get started today!

FAQs on VA Alcohol Rehab Services

Does Tricare Insurance Cover Alcohol Rehab?

Yes, Tricare insurance covers rehab for drug and alcohol addiction. The level of coverage will depend on your specific plan and individual needs. Generally, Tricare may be able to cover at least some of the cost of detox, inpatient or outpatient rehab, or more long-term residential treatment programs. There are many treatment facilities in the United States that accept Tricare, but coverage will depend on the rehab facility and your specific health plan.

What Branches of the Military Does the VA Serve?

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) serves all branches of the U.S. military and armed forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. VA provides a wide range of benefits and services to veterans, including health care, education, disability compensation, and financial assistance.

Medically Reviewed By