Veterans Day serves as a time to honor the sacrifices made by millions of Americans in the service of their country. However, it is also an opportunity to highlight the issues impacting service members long after they return home. One of the pressing challenges many veterans face is the dual struggle of addiction and mental health issues.
Overdose Lifeline, a local non-profit organization, is working to shed light on the critical connection between these issues and provide vital resources for veterans in need.
According to Justin Phillips, the Founder of Overdose Lifeline, “We have some data from the coroner’s office to show that overdose deaths in the veteran community have gone up 152%.” In response to this alarming statistic, Overdose Lifeline offers free Naloxone and kits available through their website, aimed at reducing overdose deaths and providing immediate assistance to those in crisis.
The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that around 11 percent of veterans seeking care at VA facilities for the first time are diagnosed with a substance use disorder.
Overdose Lifeline further explains that “Over 80 percent struggle with alcohol misuse and 27 percent abuse illegal drugs.”
Additionally, “Close to 7 percent face dual challenges, battling both alcohol and drug dependencies.” These figures reflect the immense burden placed on veterans, many of whom struggle not only with addiction but also with co-occurring mental health conditions.
The connection between mental health and substance use disorders is especially evident among veterans. Overdose Lifeline points out that, “Veterans with a substance use disorder are also found to be more likely to suffer from depression.”
This highlights the need for integrated care that addresses both mental health and addiction simultaneously, offering a comprehensive approach to healing.
Overdose Lifeline is dedicated to providing harm reduction resources and tools to veterans, working to reverse the negative trends associated with substance abuse and mental health challenges in this community. By offering free access to life-saving tools like Naloxone and raising awareness of the available resources, Overdose Lifeline is helping veterans in their recovery journeys.
For more information on available resources, veterans and their families can visit Overdose Lifeline’s website.
Why Choose Sunrise Recovery
Sunrise Recovery stands out because of its commitment to providing specialized care for veterans. The organization understands the unique challenges veterans face and has tailored its programs to meet their specific needs.
Through a combination of medical care, psychological support, and community, Sunrise Recovery ensures that veterans receive comprehensive, compassionate care throughout their recovery journey.
Additionally, the importance of a supportive environment cannot be overlooked. Veterans benefit from interacting with others who share similar experiences, which fosters a sense of camaraderie and support that is often crucial for successful recovery.
Recap
Addiction and mental health disorders are widespread issues among veterans, with the intersection of these two conditions creating complex treatment needs. The evidence supports a comprehensive approach that integrates both pharmacological and therapeutic interventions. v
Programs like Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and Medical Detox are particularly effective in addressing the challenges veterans face. Overdose Lifeline has made significant strides in raising awareness and providing resources, such as free Naloxone kits, to combat the overdose crisis.
At Sunrise Recovery, the focus on integrated care, including specialized programs like Medical Detox, ensures that veterans receive the highest quality care tailored to their specific needs. Sunrise Recovery’s holistic approach offers not only medical support but also ongoing counseling and community, providing veterans with the tools they need for lasting recovery.
Next Steps
For veterans struggling with addiction and mental health issues, seeking professional help is critical. Sunrise Recovery offers a range of programs designed to address both substance use disorders and mental health challenges, providing a safe and supportive environment for recovery.
Veterans can contact Sunrise Recovery for more information on how to begin their journey toward healing and recovery.
