Guest Commentary Substance use, mental health disorders impact veterans

b r a t e Memorial Day, honoring the memory of those service members who have been lost

It is also vital to recognize the millions of veterans who made it home and struggle with substance use, mental health disorders, or suicidal ideation

Substance use disorders in veteran populations are linked to homelessness and suicide In Florida are over 1 4 million veterans, the third largest veteran population in the nation

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 3 9 million veterans have a substance use disorder or a mental illness. Roughly 12% of these individuals have had serious thoughts of suicide

“Substance use disorders are complex a n d a r e i n f l u e n c e d b y m a n y f a c t o r s Military life comes with its own set of risk f a c t o r s a n d p o t e n t i a l c a u s e s , ” M i c h a e l Leach, of Addicted org, said

There are common difficulties that veterans face when they leave service This can include financial hardships, difficulty finding employment, or accessing benefits There are significant challenges when transitioning back to civilian life

Veterans are also at a higher risk of experiencing

physical, mental, and emotional health

concerns Untreated trauma can quickly develop into addiction and mental health problems. This also directly impacts all areas of life

A d d i t i o n a l l y , t h e r e a r e b a r r i e r s t o accessing some forms of treatment This can include cost and insurance gaps Many c o m m u n i t i e s s t r u g g l e w i t h i n a d e q u a t e funding Veterans also experience limited access to treatment in rural locations Stigma regarding addiction and mental illness is also a factor

Fortunately, there are options and ways that families can help; consider some of the following:

∫ The Florida Department of Veterans Affairs provides numerous resources to assist veterans and their families

∫ The Florida Veteran Support Line at 844-693-5838 is available 24/7, every day

∫ Other helpful hotlines include the Veterans Crisis Line at 800-273-8255 and the Lifeline for Vets at 888777-4443

∫ SAMHSA provides a treatment locator highlighting substance use treatment and mental health resources for veterans.

∫ The Department of Veterans Affairs has a VAFacility locator and resources for homeless veterans

When overcoming financial barriers, families may want to consider combining VA benefits with other forms of health insurance, such as Medicare, Medicaid, or private health insurance, to reduce costs

Family and friends can also make a huge difference by supporting their loved ones Speak to them openly and honestly about their substance use and express concern Help them find treatment Be patient and compassionate about what they are going through Always remember these are treatable problems

Drug and alcohol treatment facilities in Florida are also becoming increasingly better at treating veterans Many programs provide services specifically for veterans, treat co-occurring disorders, and are gender specific, such as men-only or women-only Memorial Day is much more than a chance to kick off the summer months It is a day to solemnly honor all the men and women who lost their lives serving in the U S military We must also never forget or overlook the millions of veterans who made it home but are fighting a new battle