Veterans and PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a real disorder that develops when a person has experienced or witnessed a scary, shocking, terrifying, or dangerous event. PTSD is slightly more common among Veterans than civilians. Those who serve in the military are exposed to different traumatic events than civilians. War zone deployment, training accidents and military sexual trauma (MST) may lead to PTSD.
Research shows that deployment increases risk of PTSD. In some studies, PTSD is 3 times more likely among Veterans who deployed compared to those who did not (of the same service era). Some people use drugs or alcohol to try to deal with PTSD symptoms. For example, people might use drugs to help them sleep, relax, or manage situations they would rather avoid. But, using drugs and/or alcohol can make PTSD symptoms worse.
According to the Department of Veteran Affairs:
- 7 out of every 100 Veterans (or 7%) will have PTSD
- 6 out of every 100 adults (or 6%) will have PTSD in their lifetimein the general population
- PTSD is more common among female Veterans (13 out of 100, or 13%) versus male Veterans (6 out of 100, or 6%).
- More than 2 of 10 Veterans with PTSD also have Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
- The number of Veterans who smoke (nicotine) is almost double for those with PTSD (about 6 of 10) versus those without a PTSD diagnosis (3 of 10)
- War Veterans with PTSD and alcohol problems tend to binge drink
Behavioral Crossroads offers a recovery program tailored to the specific concerns of visible and invisible wounds of battle. We provide Mental Health Primary Partial Care Outpatient services to veterans who are living in our transportation catchment area including:
- Trauma Informed Care
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Counseling for Anger Management
- Group and Individual Psychotherapy
We also offer Wraparound with housing program for veterans in our VA contracted Mental Health program (chronic and persistent conditions) that offers housing for those that need the additional structure and support. It has been a great success and is helping the regional veterans in our care. Services include:
- Medication Management
- Medical case management and navigation.
- Meals provided 7 days a week, breakfast, lunch & dinner.
- Transportation to social service and medical appointments.
- Trauma Informed Care
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Counseling for Anger Management
- Group and Individual Psychotherapy
Start Your Recovery Today!
Lasting recovery is possible. If you or your loved one is struggling with mental health issues and an addiction to drugs or alcohol, there is no time like the present to seek help. Call 609-645-2146 today to learn more about our treatment programs and how they can help you or a loved one recover from addiction.