Most insurance plans will cover either all or a portion of the treatment.
Content Reviewed By:
SUD treatment executive, national news contributor & keynote speaker.
Navigation:
- Overview
- The Realities of Substance Use in the Military
- Consequences of Substance Use in the Military
- Helping Active Duty Military Members Find the Right Treatment
- Find Rehabs That Accept Active Duty Military
Overview
The men and women of our armed forces exhibit the highest level of bravery and sacrifice imaginable, often placing themselves in harm’s way to protect the freedoms and safety of others. Despite their strength and resilience, active duty service members are uniquely vulnerable to developing substance use disorders (SUD) due to the demands and stresses of military life. While data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) indicates that rates of substance abuse among active military personnel have decreased in recent years—dropping to just one percent—many still face immense challenges with alcohol and drug use that can severely impact their lives and careers.
The Realities of Substance Use in the Military
Military service involves a wide range of stressors that can increase the risk of substance misuse, including:
- Exposure to Trauma and PTSD: Combat experience, life-threatening situations, and witnessing the loss of fellow soldiers can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is strongly linked to increased alcohol and drug use as a means of coping.
- Chronic Pain and Injury: Many service members sustain physical injuries during training or deployment, leading to long-term pain and, in some cases, dependence on prescription medications such as opioids.
- Mental Health Challenges: Anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders are common among active military personnel and are often contributing factors to substance use.
- Cultural Pressures: In certain branches and units, heavy drinking may be normalized as a way to build camaraderie or manage stress, making it harder for individuals to recognize when their use has become a problem.
- Limited Access to Confidential Care: Fear of stigma, career repercussions, or being perceived as weak often discourages service members from seeking help through military channels.
Consequences of Substance Use in the Military
Without timely and appropriate treatment, substance use can have devastating consequences for active duty personnel. These may include:
- Career Impact: Substance use may lead to failed drug tests, disciplinary actions, demotions, or even dishonorable discharge from the military.
- Legal Issues: Illegal drug use can result in criminal charges, both in military and civilian courts.
- Physical Harm and Overdose: Continued substance use increases the risk of accidental overdose, long-term health complications, and risky behaviors that could lead to serious injury or death.
- Relationship Strain: Addiction often contributes to family conflict, divorce, and isolation from loved ones.
Helping Active Duty Military Members Find the Right Treatment
Recognizing the problem is the first step toward recovery. Fortunately, there are addiction treatment resources available that are tailored specifically to the needs of active duty military personnel.
These programs often include:
- Confidential Assessments and treatment planning to protect your privacy and minimize risk to your career.
- Evidence-Based Therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and EMDR to address both addiction and underlying mental health issues.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for those struggling with opioid or alcohol dependence.
- Peer Support and Counseling, often involving others with military backgrounds who understand the unique challenges of service.
- Family Therapy to help repair and strengthen relationships strained by addiction.
Whether you’re currently serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, or Space Force, help is available. Reaching out for treatment isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a courageous step toward reclaiming your health, your career, and your future.
Find Rehabs That Accept Active Duty Military
If you or someone you care about is on active duty and struggling with addiction, take the first step today and explore treatment options that respect your service and support your recovery.
