Benefits of a Specialized Rehab Program For Veterans and First Responders

Veterans, active Military, and first responders have put their life on the line to save the lives of others. The pressure of this responsibility can be a lot to handle and, for some, drug and/or alcohol abuse becomes a coping method.

Addiction affects the entire family, not only the one struggling with substance misuse. November is National Veteran and Military Families Month, an opportunity to check in on our heroic loved ones who may, now, need your help.

Addiction Treatment for Veterans

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are one of the most common health conditions among veterans. Additionally, substance abuse is associated with co-occurring mental health disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). That’s why AdCare Treatment Center provides a specialized rehab program that is tailored for veterans.

Veterans who have seen and experienced combat first-hand are at high risk for suffering PTSD and substance use disorders. Many veterans also suffer from injuries and health problems sustained during active duty and use drugs and alcohol to relieve their symptoms.

The veterans’ rehab program at our Rhode Island addiction treatment facility is built for men and women who served in the military and who need help recovering from substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders like depression and PTSD.

Specialized Treatment Track

The specialized rehab program has several groups and treatment methods that specifically address the challenges of first responders and veterans. Some of the therapy sessions can focus on managing stress, compassion fatigue, balancing work, family, and health, increasing self-care, and building a strong support system. Within our inpatient addiction program, services that are offered include:

• Medical detox: This is a 3–5 day process that ensures patients are safe and as comfortable as possible as the body rids itself of toxins. 
• Crisis Stabilization Unit: This service is for those who struggle with addiction and a co-occurring mental health disorder. The staff will conduct a psychiatric evaluation to determine the therapies and medications needed to stabilize the patient. 
• Rehab and residential programs: Each patient works with their case manager and primary counselor to develop an individualized plan, as well as receives counseling and medical guidance. 
• Family services: Our family program allows family members of loved ones to receive the counseling and support they need. With everyone healing together, this increases the likelihood of sustained recovery. 

Overall, the program helps first responders learn healthy coping mechanisms to use when they are feeling emotionally overwhelmed.

How to Use Veteran and Active Military Benefits for Rehab

Veterans in need of substance abuse treatment may be able to receive care at AdCare and have it covered by the VA. The MISSION Act, enacted in 2018, expands access to community care providers for veterans when they are unable to receive the necessary care with the VA, due to issues like their location, excessive wait times, or a lack of specialty care.

Our veterans and first responders program offer the highest-quality evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction and other mental health issues. For questions about our program in the New England area or to learn more about the rehab admissions process, contact us today.