Substance Addiction Support for Military Personnel

Jackson House Recovery Centers is committed to providing compassionate substance addiction treatment, with a specific military program among the services we provide.

This military program provides treatment for veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families, including spouses and adult children.

Substance Abuse Among the Military

There is good news regarding rates of substance abuse among veterans and active-duty personnel, but there are still concerns. Data on these topics is available from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

The main type of substance addiction among military members is alcohol abuse. The article “Statistics on Veterans and Substance Abuse” by Leah Miller of American Addiction Centers presents that over 80% of veterans with a substance use disorder (SUD) abuse alcohol. According to the article, “Alcohol abuse and binge drinking are common among active-duty military personnel, and this behavior may continue and turn into alcoholism after separating from the service.”

Miller also reports on research that indicates illegal drugs are abused by almost 27% of veterans with a substance use disorder.

Reasons Behind Military Substance Addiction

Military personnel may turn to substance addiction for multiple reasons.

The “Statistics on Veterans and Substance Abuse” article states, “Veteran populations are at increased risk for using alcohol or drugs in problematic ways. This is due to a variety of experiences linked directly to military service.”

In reporting on alcohol and active-duty military personnel, the National Institute of Drug Abuse writes that “increased combat exposure involving violence and trauma experienced by those who serve result in an increased risk of problematic drinking.”

Reasons affecting substance use among military personnel include:

PTSD

For many military personnel, substance abuse disorders stem from mental health issues, with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) being a common factor.

PTSD is caused by exposure to traumatic events, including combat. The symptoms of PTSD can be very difficult to deal with, and include impact on sleep, social relationships, and even the ability to work, drive, or enjoy activities.

While someone might try to mitigate PTSD symptoms by drinking or taking drugs, a substance abuse disorder can actually make PTSD worse. Also, if someone already struggles with substance addiction, PTSD can worsen the addiction.

Dealing with physical injuries

Injuries received in military service, including injuries from explosive ordinance, bullet wounds, and other injuries, can result in ongoing pain for which a doctor prescribes painkillers.

There is a chance, however, that someone taking opioids such as codeine, Vicodin, or morphine for pain can develop a physical dependence and, over time, an addiction.

Dealing with mental health challenges

Mental health challenges have been found among military personnel. The Military Health System reports, “From 2019 through 2023, a total of 541,672 active component service members of the U.S. Armed Forces were diagnosed with at least one mental health disorder.”

Difficulties transitioning to civilian life

Civilian life is very different from the regimented life of an active serviceperson. This can lead to people taking drugs or drinking to cope with a painful transitional period. Such an approach can lead to substance addiction.

Signs of Addiction Among Military Personnel

How can you tell if a member of the military is dealing with substance abuse? Military personnel show the same emotional and physical signs as civilians with addiction. Look out for emotional and behavioral signs like:

Mood swings
Anxiety or paranoia
Depression
Avoidance of friends and family
Financial issues
Neglecting responsibilities in favor of drugs or alcohol
Impulsiveness and poor decision-making

Physical signs might include:

Altered sleep patterns
Sudden changes in weight
Neglected appearance
Changes in pupil size when under the influence

Addiction Support for Military Members

Addiction, if left unchecked, can absolutely ruin lives. As well as having major physical, mental, and emotional health consequences for the person who is abusing drugs or alcohol, substance abuse can also have significant financial and social consequences. Those suffering might be unable to hold down a job or look after their families. Loved ones often suffer as well.

Some military personnel may resist finding substance abuse treatment, with worries about consequences such as losing custody of their children or finding work, or they might be worried about the stigma surrounding rehabilitation services. In some cases, it may be difficult for military personnel to access convenient treatment programs.

But this doesn’t mean that military personnel with substance addiction challenges don’t need support.

One of the things that has a huge impact on recovery is care and communication. Loved ones may provide significant support, but therapy is also very important. Both government and civilian programs are available for military members to get help.

Our Approach to Substance Addiction Treatment

The approach Jackson House Recovery Centers takes in supporting military personnel includes our specific military program and partnership with both TriCare and TriWest insurance providers.

Jackson House Recovery Centers focuses on understanding, not judgment. Our team prioritizes helping clients detox safely and providing support for long-term recovery.

Our professional team members use evidence-based therapies, and personalized treatment plans are created for each client. Treatment is provided for those dealing with:

Alcohol addiction
Meth addiction
Fentanyl addiction
Heroin addiction
Cocaine addiction
Opioid addiction
Dual diagnosis (substance addiction combined with mental health issues)
Prescription drug addiction

Contact Us for Military Substance Addiction Treatment

Our team provides support for veterans, active military personnel, and their family members. Please reach out for our services for yourself or someone you love. Contact us to learn more about our military program, to refer a loved one, or to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

15 Jul 2025