Many veterans struggle with substance use because the nature of their work can cause extreme trauma, stress, and physical fatigue. Additionally, service members face the stigma of having mental health issues that traumatic events have triggered. This can sometimes mean that you may not receive the care you need to process old trauma and deal…
The rate of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) may be up to 15 times higher in the military population than it is in the general population, which likely explains in part the prevalence of substance use disorder in the military. Consequently, when people see or hear the term PTSD, they likely think of veterans.
Someone with PTSD can feel helpless and hopeless. Suicidal thoughts are common, as is the abuse of alcohol or other substances in an attempt to stop the intrusive thoughts, memories, and experiences triggered by PTSD.