Our courageous men and women in the armed forces demonstrate unwavering bravery and make incredible sacrifices every day. Sadly, due to the challenges they face, they’re uniquely vulnerable to substance use disorders. While the rates of addiction among veterans and military personnel have seen a decline in recent years, there remains a prevalent culture of alcohol and drug use within certain sectors of the United States Armed Forces.
At NorthStar Transitions, we know that the journey to recovery can be challenging for anyone, but the demands and complexities of active duty require a specialized approach. Our Military & Veterans Treatment Program is designed to meet the needs of members of the military, providing them with the support and guidance necessary for their unique circumstances.
If you or a loved one is a veteran or currently on active duty and struggling with addiction or substance use, it's crucial to seek the appropriate help so you can move forward with your life, continue your service and develop healthier coping strategies. You don't have to face this battle alone — by reaching out for support at NorthStar Transitions, you're taking an important step toward reclaiming control over your well-being and embracing a brighter future.
Despite the U.S. Department of Defense’s zero-tolerance policy against drug use, members of the armed forces are still vulnerable to the same substance use problems that affect the rest of society. Prescription drug abuse is widespread, as are binge drinking and tobacco use.
The stresses of deployment and the unique culture of the military are the primary reasons military personnel develop drug and alcohol abuse issues. Unsurprisingly, members of the military who have experienced multiple deployments and combat exposure are at great risk of developing substance misuse problems. They are often more likely to engage in heavy drinking, to suffer alcohol- and other drug-related problems and to use prescription medications to control behavioral health issues such as PTSD.
Substance use among military members can have a profound impact on their well-being and ability to fulfill their duties effectively. Understanding the symptoms and challenges faced by those struggling with substance use is crucial to providing the appropriate support and intervention. If you suspect that you or a loved one has a drug or alcohol problem, some of the warning signs to look for include:
Military spouses and children are not immune to substance misuse problems, either. Moving every few years and having to start over in a new community can be incredibly stressful, as can getting left behind when a family member deploys to a war zone. Military families who have not developed healthy coping and self-care mechanisms may turn to drugs or alcohol instead, creating a vicious cycle that can lead to addiction.
Treating substance abuse among military personnel requires a comprehensive and tailored approach that considers the unique challenges they face. Treatment often combines evidence-based therapies that focus on areas of trauma, medication management and holistic techniques to provide a well-rounded approach to recovery.
Therapy is a crucial element of the recovery journey. Proven modalities, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed care, are commonly utilized in military treatment programs. These therapeutic approaches help address underlying issues, develop healthy coping strategies, and foster resilience in the face of adversity.
Medication may also be incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can help in managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings to support and sustain the recovery process. Collaboration between patients and their doctors is key to ensuring the effective use of medications as part of their overall treatment.
In addition to traditional therapies and medication, holistic techniques play a vital role in recovering from problematic drug or alcohol use. Mindfulness practices, physical exercise and proper nutrition contribute to overall well-being and enhance the effectiveness of treatment. Some programs geared toward military personnel also include adventure therapy and outdoor activities to provide alternative avenues for healing and growth.
At NorthStar Transitions, we take great pride in offering an exceptional Military Treatment Program. Our mission is to provide personalized care that addresses the unique needs of military members. We understand the sacrifices you've made and the challenges you face, and we're committed to supporting your recovery every step of the way.
We know that one size does not fit all when it comes to overcoming addiction, so we offer a range of effective therapies that can be adapted to fit your needs. Our multidisciplinary team of licensed therapists, physicians and addiction specialists also work collaboratively to create personalized treatment plans that help you get to the root of your drug or alcohol use. Some of the features of our Military Treatment Program include:
At NorthStar Transitions, you'll also find a supportive community of individuals who share similar experiences. This camaraderie and understanding can foster a sense of belonging and support, making your recovery journey less daunting and more empowering.
At NorthStar Transitions, we are in-network with TRICARE®, a managed-care program for active-duty, retired and reserve military personnel and qualified dependents. We offer residential,outpatient,intensive outpatient,detox and day treatment programs for our clients, using an evidence-based treatment model that has been proven to be highly effective.
NorthStar Transitions also offers targeted support for veterans, helping them navigate the unique challenges they face in their journey to recovery.
At NorthStar Transitions, we are highly attuned to the unique challenges that veterans face during and after service. Our trauma-informed approach is grounded in empathy and a deep understanding of what it takes to overcome these challenges and successfully transition back into civilian life. Our staff is trained on military culture and lifestyle to provide a healing environment that respects veterans’ distinct experiences while equipping them with healthy tools and strategies to rebuild a future rooted in hope, stability and sustained recovery.
These are the lives of those who made a commitment to serve their country and protect our freedoms. They need and deserve our support.
Our recovery program reflects the structured routine familiar to many veterans, fostering the self-sufficiency and leadership skills that were a cornerstone during active service. This structure is designed to facilitate a seamless transition from military to civilian life, nurturing stability and autonomy in each individual as they navigate their journey to recovery.
We understand that returning home after military service is often accompanied by new roadblocks and challenges. Our program aims to support veterans in adapting the self-soothing techniques and responses developed during active duty to civilian life, guiding them to find new, healthy coping strategies that suit their changed circumstances.
One key aspect of reintegrating back into civilian life is addressing unresolved trauma. If left untreated, the effects of trauma can increase the risk of substance use and mental health concerns like anxiety, depression and PTSD. At Northstar Transitions, we utilize a trauma-informed approach to help veterans cope with past trauma and begin to heal.
In cases where clients have previously undergone trauma interventions such as EMDR and found them destabilizing, our team helps to prepare and support them throughout treatment, facilitating readiness to dive into deeper trauma work at the outpatient level of care.
Navigating the necessary referrals through the VA can be daunting, but our experienced admissions team is here to ease this process. We work hand in hand with you, leveraging our expertise to help veterans get the treatment they need promptly and without hassle.
In many communities, there is a substantial lack of local resources for veterans. Northstar Transitions works closely with TriWest to address this issue, coordinating streamlined access to behavioral health and substance use treatment programs like ours. This partnership ensures that veterans can find care and support when local options are limited.
At NorthStar Transitions, we know that getting the right help is vital to overcoming addiction. If you or a loved one is a veteran or member of the military and struggling with substance use, we can help. Our Military & Veterans Treatment Program is designed to address your unique needs so you can reclaim your life, move forward with your service and build a healthier future. To get started, call us today at 866-407-2240 or complete our online contact form.
