How Military Service can cause Addiction 

While illicit drug use is a concern across society, the military presents a unique situation. The stresses of deployments, the strong camaraderie, and the ready availability of alcohol can all contribute to substance use issues. However, the military also has strict policies and random drug testing in place to deter drug use.

In What Ways Does Military Service Contribute to Addiction?

Military service members face several challenges that can increase their risk of substance use:

• Deployments: The stress and danger of deployments can lead to risky behaviors, including self-medication with drugs or alcohol.
• Military culture: The strong sense of community and shared experience in the military can make it difficult to seek help for substance use issues, as there may be a fear of being seen as weak.
• Access to alcohol: Alcohol is readily available on most military bases, and binge drinking is a significant problem.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), overall illicit drug use among active-duty personnel is relatively low compared to the general population. A 2015 survey by Meadows, Sarah O., Charles C., et al. shows that less than 1% of active service members have used illicit drugs in the past year, although only about 8.6% of all active members chose to participate in the survey.

Opioid and Prescription Drug Misuse among Active Duty and Veterans

Opioid and prescription drug misuse pose a significant threat to the well-being of both active-duty military personnel and veterans. Understanding the risk factors and available resources is crucial in addressing this complex issue.

Active Duty Personnel:

• Deployment: The stresses and potential for injury during deployments significantly increase the risk of prescription pain medication use. A study by Killeen, T. K., Weathers, R. W., & Goggans, S. in 2009 titled ‘Risk and protective factors for alcohol and illicit drug use among deploying soldiers. Drug and Alcohol Dependence’, shows a strong correlation between deployment and increased use of opioids.
• Pain Management: Military personnel are more likely to experience injuries that require pain management, leading to potential dependence on opioids a class of medications used to treat pain.
• Mental Health: Active duty personnel with mental health conditions, such as PTSD, are at a higher risk of misusing opioids and prescription drugs to self-medicate.

Veterans:

• Transition Challenges: The transition from military service to civilian life can be difficult, leading some veterans to misuse prescription drugs to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression.
• Chronic Pain: Veterans are more likely than civilians to experience chronic pain due to injuries sustained during service, which can increase their reliance on pain medication.
• Access to Care: Veterans may face challenges accessing timely and effective mental health and addiction treatment services, hindering recovery efforts.

Opioid use among veterans significantly contributes to addiction in the military. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reported a 60% increase in opioid prescriptions filled between 2002 and 2012, according to a survey by the Veterans Health Administration in 2019 titled ‘Opioid Prescribing in the VA.’ The same survey revealed opioid overdose deaths among veterans rose by 56% from 2010 to 2016, highlighting the severity of the issue.

The military and the VA actively combat opioid and prescription drug misuse through various initiatives. Both the military and VA implemented stricter guidelines and protocols to reduce opioid prescriptions. Efforts expand access to mental health and addiction treatment services for active duty personnel and veterans. Educational programs raise awareness about the risks of opioid and prescription drug misuse among active duty and veteran populations.

Alcohol Abuse and Addiction among Military Personnel

Alcohol abuse and addiction is a prevalent concern among military personnel, impacting both active duty service members and veterans. Studies reveal higher rates of binge drinking and alcohol use disorder (AUD) within the military compared to the civilian population. 

The 2015 Department of Defense’s Health Related Behaviors Survey (HRBS) found that 30% of active-duty service members reported binge drinking (consuming a large number of drinks in a short period). This is higher than the 24.7% reported in the general adult population at that time.

Several factors contribute to this issue, as highlighted by a report from the report:

• Military-specific stressors: Combat deployments, permanent changes of station, and demanding training schedules expose service members to unique stressors that can heighten the risk of substance misuse.
• Stress coping mechanisms: Some service members may view alcohol as a way to manage stress or self-medicate for mental health challenges like PTSD and depression.
• Military culture: Drinking habits within a unit can influence individual behavior, making it harder to identify and address problematic alcohol use.

The U.S. military faces significant financial and operational burdens due to problematic alcohol use among service members. A 2009 study by Harwood et al. found excessive alcohol consumption costs the military $1.12 billion annually. Healthcare costs also increase, with research indicating an additional $425 million yearly expense associated with excessive drinking by military personnel.

Alcohol abuse disrupts military readiness. Estimates indicate a loss of 320,000 workdays per year due to alcohol-related issues, along with 34,400 arrests, half of which involve driving under the influence (DUI). This issue hinders deployment capabilities, with an estimated 10,400 active-duty personnel unable to deploy annually due to alcohol abuse. Additionally, excessive drinking contributes to the separation of approximately 2,200 service members from duty each year.

A report by the National Center for PTSD details some other consequences:

• Mental and physical health decline: Alcohol abuse can exacerbate mental health problems and contribute to various physical health issues like liver damage, heart disease, and even cancer.
• Increased accident and injury risk: Alcohol use can impair judgment and coordination, significantly increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
• Relationship strain: Alcohol abuse can negatively impact relationships with family and friends.
• Suicide risk: Studies have shown a strong correlation between alcohol abuse and suicide risk.

Smoking, Vaping, and Nicotine Addiction: Prevalence in the Military

Smoking and, more recently, vaping have been concerns for military health for decades. While smoking rates have declined in recent years, they remain higher among service members than civilians. Vaping use also poses potential health risks, though the long-term effects are still being studied.

Smoking:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2018, 18.4% of active-duty service members reported current cigarette smoking, compared to 14.0% of civilians. This means that smoking is still considerably more common among those serving in the military.

Factors Contributing to Smoking: There are several factors that may contribute to higher smoking rates among military personnel, including:

• Stress of military service
• Deployment
• Social factors and peer pressure
• Ease of access to tobacco products in some areas

Vaping:

Data suggests vaping use may be lower in the military than among civilians. A 2020 study by the Department of Defense found that only 3% of military beneficiaries reported current vaping, compared to 8% of civilians.

While vaping may be less harmful than smoking cigarettes, the long-term health effects of vaping are still unknown. There is growing concern about the potential for lung injuries associated with vaping products, especially among young people.

Nicotine Addiction:

Both smoking and vaping deliver nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. Nicotine addiction can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms when someone tries to quit.

Efforts to Reduce Tobacco Use

The military has implemented a number of programs and policies to reduce tobacco use among service members, including:

• Smoking cessation programs
• Restrictions on tobacco sales on military bases
• Educational campaigns

Smoking remains a significant health concern for the military, despite declining rates. Vaping introduces new potential health risks, although use appears lower than among civilians. Nicotine addiction is a common thread between smoking and vaping, highlighting the importance of smoking cessation efforts.

Substance Use, Mental Health, and Military/Veteran Life

Military service and veterans face unique challenges that can increase their risk of substance use and mental health problems. Here’s a breakdown of the key points.

Substance Use:

• Higher Rates: Compared to civilians, military personnel and veterans have higher rates of substance use disorders, particularly alcohol misuse. Teeters, J.B., Lancaster, C.L., et al in thier 2017 study ‘Substance use disorders in military veterans: prevalence and treatment challenges’ showed that. Studies suggest factors like combat stress, deployment, and difficulty adjusting to civilian life can contribute.
• Self-Medication: Some service members or veterans might misuse substances as a way to cope with mental health challenges like PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
• Consequences: Substance abuse can worsen mental health symptoms, lead to physical health problems, and negatively impact relationships, work performance, and overall well-being.

Mental Health: 

• PTSD and Substance Use Co-Occur: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common mental health condition among veterans who have experienced trauma during service. People with PTSD are more likely to struggle with substance use disorders as well.
• Deployment Stress: Deployment and combat exposure can lead to a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These conditions can also increase the risk of substance use.
• Reintegration Challenges: Transitioning back to civilian life after military service can be difficult, and some veterans may struggle with feelings of isolation, unemployment, and a lack of purpose. These challenges can also contribute to mental health problems and substance abuse.

What Counseling Options Are Available for Military Personnel Facing Substance Use Disorders, Ptsd, and Depression?

Counseling options available for military personnel facing substance use disorders, PTSD, and depression include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Family Therapy, and Group Therapy. These therapies help individuals identify negative thought patterns, process traumatic experiences, build motivation for change, and improve family dynamics. 

Here’s a breakdown of the counseling approaches that can be beneficial.

Types of Counseling: 

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is an evidence-based therapy. It is highly effective for treating mental health conditions like PTSD and depression. It helps identify negative thought patterns and develop coping mechanisms.
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): TF-CBT is a specialized form of CBT. It focuses on processing traumatic experiences associated with PTSD. It helps develop coping skills for managing flashbacks and nightmares.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI): MI is a collaborative counseling approach. It explores ambivalence about change and builds motivation to address substance use problems.
• Family Therapy: Family Therapy is a supportive counseling method. It helps families cope with substance use disorders, PTSD, and depression. It improves communication, problem-solving skills, and overall family functioning.
• Group Therapy: Group Therapy is a supportive group-based approach. It connects individuals with similar experiences and offers a safe space to share struggles and learn coping mechanisms.

What Is the Link Between Substance Use Disorders and Suicide in the Military?

The link between substance use disorders (SUDs) and suicide in the military is well-established and critical. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not provide a specific statistic on the percentage of suicides involving SUDs among active-duty personnel. However, a 2020 VA report indicates that SUDs, particularly opioid use disorder, are associated with higher suicide rates than conditions like depression or PTSD. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that substance use, especially alcohol, has been involved in about 30% of Army suicides and over 45% of attempted suicides since 2003.

Research shows that individuals with SUDs face a significantly higher risk of suicide. This increased risk is attributed to factors such as feelings of hopelessness and despair, which are major risk factors for suicide. Additionally, substance use can impair judgment and lead to impulsive behaviors, increasing the likelihood of self-harm.

Several factors contribute to the connection between SUDs and suicide in the military. Self-medication is one significant factor, as some service members may use substances to cope with mental health challenges like PTSD or depression, which can exacerbate suicidal thoughts. Military service can create substantial stress, leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Stigma surrounding mental health and substance use can also act as a barrier to seeking help, causing individuals to feel isolated and ashamed.

What Are the Treatment Options for Military Personnel Experiencing Substance Use Disorders?

Military personnel experiencing substance use disorders (SUDs) have access to a range of effective treatment options. Here’s a breakdown of some key approaches.

Outpatient Treatment Programs:

• Individual Therapy: Individual therapy involves one-on-one sessions with a therapist. Therapists employ various approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help individuals identify negative thought patterns and develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage cravings and triggers.
• Group Therapy: Group therapy connects individuals facing similar struggles, providing a powerful source of support. This approach offers a safe space for service members to share experiences, learn from each other, and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Family Therapy: Family therapy addresses the impact of substance use disorders on the entire family. This treatment provides support and guidance for families coping with addiction, improving communication, problem-solving skills, and overall family functioning.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): For certain substance use disorders (SUDs), medications like methadone or buprenorphine serve as powerful tools for managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. MAT, combined with therapy, represents the gold standard for treating opioid use disorder.

Inpatient Treatment Programs:

• Residential Treatment: Residential treatment programs provide 24/7 care in a structured environment for individuals requiring more intensive treatment. These programs offer a safe space to focus solely on recovery, away from triggers and distractions.
• Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): PHPs offer intensive treatment during the day while allowing individuals to return home in the evenings. This option suits service members needing a higher level of care while maintaining connections to their families and daily routines.

Additional Considerations:

• Military-Specific Treatment: The military offers treatment programs tailored to the needs of service members. These programs address unique challenges, such as combat stress and deployment experiences.
• Accessibility and Confidentiality: Treatment options remain accessible and confidential, encouraging service members to seek help without fear of stigma or repercussions on their careers.
• Co-Occurring Disorders: Many service members with SUDs also struggle with mental health conditions, such as PTSD or depression. Treatment programs addressing both SUDs and mental health conditions prove highly effective.

What Other Potential Causes of Addiction Are There? 

Other potential causes of addiction, beyond military-specific challenges, include a complex mix of influences. Genetics play a part, with a family history of addiction increasing your risk. Brain chemistry also factors in, as some individuals have a reward system more prone to intense pleasure from substances, leading to problematic use.

Environmental factors like socioeconomic disadvantage can contribute. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunities can make substances seem like an escape. Similarly, childhood trauma can disrupt brain development and heighten the risk of addiction as a coping mechanism. Social circles also influence your likelihood of developing an SUD. Peer pressure and easy access to substances can create a risky environment.

Mental health conditions like depression or PTSD can be intricately linked to SUDs. People might use substances to self-medicate difficult emotions or manage symptoms of these disorders. The earlier someone starts using substances, especially with a developing brain, the greater the risk of addiction. Remember, addiction is a complex disease, and understanding these various potential causes is crucial for creating effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Can Stressful Work Cause addiction?

Yes, stress from military service can contribute to addiction. The demanding and often traumatic nature of military work can lead to high stress levels, which can increase the risk for addiction. Additionally, the use of drugs and alcohol to cope with the stress and trauma of military service can further exacerbate the problem. 

Can a lack of quality parenting cause addiction?

A lack of quality parenting can potentially contribute to the development of addiction. Military service can expose individuals to a range of trauma and stressors that can lead to substance abuse and addiction. Furthermore, a lack of nurturing and supportive parenting may leave individuals vulnerable to turning to drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism.