Recovery for Veterans
Veterans face higher rates of substance use disorder, often alongside PTSD and chronic pain from service. The VA offers treatment at no cost, and veteran-specific recovery programs like Vet Centers and veteran AA/NA meetings provide peer support from people who've been there.
Why Are Veterans at Higher Risk for Addiction?
Combat trauma, chronic pain, and traumatic brain injury (TBI) create a perfect storm. Add the loss of structure after military life, a culture that normalizes heavy drinking, and a rough transition to civilian life. The result: veterans develop substance use disorders at rates far above the general population.
What VA Treatment Options Are Available?
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Dual diagnosis programs (addiction + PTSD)
- PTSD-specific treatment
- Residential programs
- Outpatient programs
All of these are available through VA benefits. Call 1-800-827-1000 to start.
What About Non-VA Recovery Resources?
- Vet Centers (peer support from other veterans)
- Operation Homefront
- Wounded Warrior Project
- American Legion
- Veteran-specific AA/NA meetings
- Military chaplains
- Battle buddies in recovery
Vet Centers deserve a closer look. They're staffed by people who served, and the support is free. No referral needed.
How Do You Take the First Step?
- Call the VA. 1-800-827-1000.
- Find a Vet Center. Peer support from veterans who get it.
- Look for veteran meetings. AA and NA groups specifically for vets.
- Use your VA benefits. Treatment is available, and you earned it.
- Connect with other veterans in recovery. You don't have to do this alone.
Treat both the addiction and the trauma. Dual diagnosis matters. VA resources exist for exactly this.
You served. Now let someone serve you.
Thank you for your service. Now let us help.
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