How to Get Help for Opioid Addiction as a Veteran
Opioids are one of the most important pain-relieving medications available today. For Veterans suffering from intense injury and pain after traumatic experiences, medications like this can prove vitally important.
The problem with opioids is their high risk of leading to addiction and dependence. Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a growing problem for Veterans. It is also one of the factors that lead to early death in some.
The data is clear. Studies published in the Annals of Medicine found that, from 2010 to 2019, the rate of opioid overdose among Veterans grew by an astounding 53%. Many of those using these substances suffered not just from physical trauma but also from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Chronic pain and PTSD are the two key components of this high-risk opioid use. What can be done about it?
Treatment for OUD Is Available and Can Be Effective
As a Veteran, you potentially have two very important factors to consider:
- You have likely been exposed to highly traumatic events and may have even put your life on the line for others. If you didn’t have the mental health resources you needed at the time, you may have developed PTSD, a trauma disorder that requires treatment.
- You may have suffered injury or debilitation that has left you with chronic pain. You may feel you need medications to simply get through the day.
Both of these scenarios can lead to the onset of OUD. By recognizing this risk, it’s then possible to start on the path to recovery. Treatment for opioid use disorder is always tailored to your needs, but it generally includes the following steps.
Detoxification
Often, the first step is to create a clean start, and that requires detoxing. Today, we have strategies and methods to help a person detox safely in a medically protected environment. We can provide support to manage the pain and withdrawal symptoms you may have. You can detox in a supportive environment successfully.
Treatment of PTSD
Even if you did not experience a terrifying event firsthand, you may have seen one occur. PTSD creates a type of scar on a person’s mental health that requires treatment. Our PTSD treatment services can help you to work through that complexity.
You do not have to relive what occurred. You can break the hold the past has on you. Doing this can help to give you clarity and support moving forward.
How Tactical Recovery at Victory Addiction Recovery Center Works
To provide Veterans with the support and guidance they need, Victory Addiction Recovery Center offers a Tactical Recovery program. This program offers very specific care designed to meet the unique needs of Veterans. Our goal is to support, educate, and assist you in overcoming OUD and PTSD in the most effective manner possible.
During treatment, you gain access to some of the best and most innovative therapy and treatment options available. This includes evidence-based treatment, such as EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. We use a wide range of additional support tools as well, including Veteran groups where you can meet with others who are facing similar struggles.
You will also receive access to comprehensive services to meet your needs, including:
- Medically supervised detox that allows you to safely remove opioids from your system with minimal discomfort
- Residential treatment from 30 to 90 days, depending on your needs
- An intensive outpatient program designed to support you as you live at home
- A partial hospitalization program, ideal for those who have PTSD
- Sober living opportunities for when you’re ready to move forward
- Alumni services that allow you to remain in contact with our team
- Non-addictive options for dealing with chronic pain
The Tactical Recovery program provides individualized treatment plans designed to address your specific needs. It includes a 12-step program, medical and psychiatric oversight, and 24-hour nursing and medical support should you need it. We also incorporate a family program so that your family members can receive the necessary support to help you recover.
Learn How Tactical Support Is Helping Opioid Use Disorder and PTSD in Veterans
For opioid addiction treatment in Lafayette, LA, contact Victory Addiction Recovery Center. Our team is ready to help you and provide you with the resources you need to recover. Contact us now to find out how you can embrace the care you need.