Members of our nation’s military and their families live very different lives than their civilian counterparts. The unique demands and challenges of military service and the culture of military life create a lifestyle that seems foreign to civilians and includes stressors exclusive to this population. These differences result in significantly higher rates of substance abuse, trauma, and mental health conditions among military personnel and their family members.
Harmony Hills’ Heroes Program recognizes the unique needs of the military community. It provides substance abuse and trauma treatment for military members specifically designed to cater to their needs and circumstances. Whether you are a veteran, active-duty service member, or a military family member struggling with substance abuse or addiction, we can help. Call 855.494.0357 or contact us online to learn more about our veterans services.
Why Does Substance Abuse in Military Families Occur?
It is common knowledge for most that substance use disorders (SUD) and mental health conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common among military personnel. Less common is the knowledge of the rates of SUD and mental health disorders among the spouses and children of military members.
Primarily due to frequent moves for changes in service members’ duty calls, spouses and children of military members face challenges that typical families don’t, such as:
- Recurring and extended periods of separation due to training, deployments, and other obligations
- Emotional stress and fear of death or injury of their loved one
- Financial stress due to low pay for active duty service members and job insecurity for spouses
- Limited access to healthcare, especially for specialized treatments, due to duty stations
- Educational setbacks
- Loneliness and social isolation
- Lack of a sense of community connections
- Ongoing grief and loss
The military operates under strict rules and regulations that govern everything from personal appearance to conduct and behavior. Service members often expect their spouses and children to adhere to these rules and regulations, making them feel they lack autonomy.
These factors, compounded by a stigma against mental health treatment, ultimately result in significantly higher rates of mental health disorders and drug addiction in spouses and children of military members.
How Seeking Specialized Treatment Can Help
Seeking specialized treatment for substance abuse is a crucial step for military families grappling with the unique stresses of military life. The distinct challenges faced by these families—a blend of relocations, prolonged separations, and emotional turmoil—often contribute to the development of substance use disorders. Approaching recovery through a specialized program that understands these specific experiences can lead to more effective and empathetic care.
Specialized treatment programs, like Harmony Hills’ Heroes Program, tailor their services to address the unique dynamics of military family life. For instance, therapeutic environments that foster an understanding of military culture can reduce feelings of isolation and stigma often associated with seeking help. Moreover, these programs provide a comfortable, supportive space where service members, spouses, and children can openly share their experiences without fear of judgment.
Evidence shows that engagement and results improve markedly when treatment is adapted to reflect the patients’ lived realities. This form of treatment not only targets the immediate symptoms of substance abuse but also helps families build resilience by addressing underlying mental health issues such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression. By reaching out for help, military families can break the cycle of addiction, find mutual support within their community, and ultimately foster healthier, more fulfilling lives together. If you or a loved one is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for specialized assistance—your journey toward recovery begins with a single step.
TRICARE Covers Mental Health Services
TRICARE, the health insurance program for military service members and their families, provides comprehensive coverage for mental health services, ensuring that those who serve our nation have access to the care they need. This coverage includes outpatient and inpatient treatment for mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and therapy sessions with licensed professionals. TRICARE also offers behavioral health care referrals to specialists who understand the unique challenges faced by military families.
By covering a wide range of mental health services, TRICARE helps to reduce the financial barriers that might prevent individuals from seeking essential support, ultimately fostering healthier military communities. If you are a service member or a military family member, take advantage of your TRICARE benefits to prioritize your mental health care.
Learn More About Substance Abuse and Trauma Treatment for Military Families at Harmony Hills
Harmony Hills provides comprehensive co-occurring trauma and substance abuse treatment for active military members, veterans, and their families. Residential treatment provides a supportive therapeutic environment with 24-hour access to care without daily life stressors.
Here, military-based clients have access to peers who can relate to their experiences. Find the treatment you deserve at Harmony Hills—call us at 855.494.0357, fill out our contact form, or send us a chat today for more information.
