Drug Rehab For Veterans
- Written By: John Sullivan
- Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Lucille Thomas
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Drug Rehab for Veterans
Military service builds strength and resilience, but it can also leave behind invisible wounds. The transition back to civilian life presents unique challenges, and for many veterans, this includes a struggle with substance abuse. These challenges are often compounded by experiences that are difficult for others to understand. Fortunately, there is specialized help available through drug rehab for veterans.
For veterans in the Los Angeles area, Absolute Recovery Therapeutic Solutions (The ARTS) in Canoga Park, CA, offers a supportive path to healing. We provide a range of dedicated programs, including Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and standard Outpatient (OP) programs, along with sober living options. This guide will explore the unique issues veterans face and how our specialized drug rehab can provide the tools for lasting addiction recovery.
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Understanding Substance Abuse in Veterans
The connection between military service and substance abuse is well-documented. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, veterans are more likely to experience a substance use disorder than the general population. In addition, data show that more than 1 in 10 veterans seeking care at VA hospitals meet criteria for a substance use disorder.
Common Triggers for Veterans
The path to substance use for veterans is often complex and tied to their service. Several factors can contribute to their addiction, including:
- Combat Exposure: Witnessing traumatic events can lead to using alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with disturbing memories and emotions.
- Chronic Pain: Service-related injuries often result in chronic pain, and prescription painkillers can sometimes lead to dependence and addiction.
- Transition Stress: Adjusting to civilian life after the structured environment of the military can be incredibly stressful, leading some to self-medicate.
- A Culture of Heavy Drinking: In some military circles, heavy drinking is normalized, which can create habits that are difficult to break after service ends.
Co-Occurring Mental Health Issues
Substance abuse in veterans rarely occurs in isolation. It is frequently linked with co-occurring mental health conditions that stem from military experiences. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one of the most common, with symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, and emotional numbness often leading individuals to use substances to find relief.
Other co-occurring conditions might include:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Personality disorders
Whether a service member was diagnosed or lived with these conditions before or after their time in the military, they can play a significant role in substance abuse and addiction. It’s essential to address these underlying mental health issues when treating individuals with SUDs to increase the likelihood of successful recovery.
HOW WE HELP
Finding the Right Drug Rehab for Veterans at The ARTS
Drug rehab for veterans must be designed to understand the specific experiences and challenges facing service members. A one-size-fits-all approach is often ineffective. At The ARTS, we offer customized and modern therapies designed to address the multifaceted nature of addiction in veterans and active-duty personnel.
Our military-focused program provides a safe and understanding environment where veterans can connect with peers who share similar backgrounds. This sense of community is a powerful tool in recovery, reducing feelings of isolation and creating a strong support network. We are also proud to accept Tri-West insurance, making our high-quality care more accessible to those who have served.
Our flexible treatment options cater to different needs and stages of recovery:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): A structured, full-day program that offers intensive therapy while allowing clients to return home or to a sober living environment in the evenings.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): This program provides several hours of therapy per week, offering a balance between intensive treatment and the flexibility to maintain work or family commitments.
- Outpatient Program (OP): A less intensive option that offers ongoing support and counseling to help maintain sobriety as individuals transition back to their daily lives.
- Telehealth Services: For those unable to attend in-person sessions, our telehealth options provide access to quality care from the comfort of home. We provide 2 IOP telehealth options for service members and veterans across the country, including:
- East Coast VIOP: Mon. Tues. Thurs. 3-5:45 (PST)
- West Coast VIOP: Mon. Wed. Thurs. 6-8:45 (PST)
- Sober Living: Chrysalis Sober Living in West Hills, CA, is The ARTS’ premier sober living option for our clients. Sober living provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to continue their recovery journey after completing our programs.
Customized Care
The ARTS Approach: Modern, Individualized Care
At Absolute Recovery Therapeutic Solutions, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the addiction. Our state-of-the-art facility in Canoga Park was designed to be a safe and comforting space for healing. We offer a well-rounded drug rehab for veterans that combines evidence-based practices with unique, modern therapies.
Because every client’s journey is unique, our treatment plans are truly individualized. We offer two primary tracks to address the specific needs of our clients:
- Primary Mental Health Track: For veterans and clients whose primary struggle is with mental health conditions like PTSD, depression, or anxiety, with substance use as a secondary issue.
- Primary Dual Diagnosis Track: An integrated approach for clients where substance use and mental health disorders are equally prominent and intertwined.
Our therapeutic options are designed to foster healing on multiple levels:
- Individual Counseling: One-on-one sessions with experienced therapists build a strong foundation for long-term recovery, allowing for deep exploration of personal issues.
- Group Counseling: Group sessions provide a community of like-minded peers, offering support, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging that is vital for veterans.
- Family and Relationship Counseling: Addiction affects the entire family. We offer counseling to help heal relationships, improve communication, and build a strong support system at home.
ARTS IOP is an in-network provider for BlueShield of California, Magellan, HMC, and Com Psych. Contact us today to find out if your insurance will help cover many of the costs associated with treatment at our program.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
At Absolute Recovery Therapeutic Solutions, we offer a comprehensive range of addiction treatments tailored to meet the unique needs of veterans. Our programs include PHP, IOP, OP, sober living, and telehealth options. Each treatment plan is customized to ensure the best possible outcomes for long-term recovery.
Veterans often face unique challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other trauma-related issues that can contribute to substance abuse. Our veteran-focused programs address these underlying conditions along with the addiction itself. Our team is experienced in working with military personnel and understands the specific struggles veterans face, ensuring a compassionate and effective approach to recovery.
The first step is reaching out to our team for a consultation. During this initial conversation, we’ll gather information about your situation to help determine the best course of action. From there, we may recommend an assessment to develop a personalized treatment plan designed to meet your needs.
Yes, our program specializes in dual diagnosis treatment, which addresses addiction alongside co-occurring mental health disorders like PTSD, anxiety, or depression. By treating both conditions simultaneously, we aim to provide a more holistic recovery process that promotes long-term wellness.
The length of treatment varies depending on individual needs and the severity of the addiction. Programs can range from 30 to 90 days or longer. After completing primary treatment, ongoing outpatient care and aftercare services are available to ensure continued support during recovery.
Yes, absolute confidentiality is a cornerstone of our program. Our staff is committed to protecting your privacy, and we comply with all applicable laws to ensure your information remains secure.
After completing your rehab program, we offer extensive aftercare and alumni support services to help you maintain your recovery. These services include ongoing counseling, support groups, and resources to help you transition back to everyday life while staying focused on your goals. We also offer sober living options if you’re interested in a structured environment after treatment.
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