Substance abuse issues among soldiers is unfortunately not uncommon. Traumatic experiences in combat can often catapult a solider into self-medication as a coping mechanism. According to a new report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), alcohol abuse is still the primary reason that veterans turn to a substance abuse treatment program. In 2013, the Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) found that 65.4 percent of veterans who entered a substance abuse treatment program reported alcohol as their primary substance of abuse, while 10.7 perfect reported heroin, and 6.2 percent reported cocaine. This information was collected only from veterans who chose to enter a non-VA facility.
Ignoring the Consequences of Substance Abuse Can be Lethal
Classic Signs of Addiction One of the classic signs of addiction is continued use of a substance despite the consequences it brings. Many people refuse to believe that anything bad is going to happen to them. Although others around them might be at risk for overdose and may be experiencing health concerns, the belief that they are immune to such …