Drug Addiction Resources
Veterans face a number of challenges upon returning to civilian
life. Far too many lack the resources and support system needed to combat
the psychological and emotional trauma that comes when they
return home, leaving them to self-medicate. Substance Abuse Disorder
can pervade any home, but it is especially problematic for
returning veterans. Luckily, there are resources available for our service men
and women.
Veterans and loved ones of veterans may use the resources below to
help cope with civilian life, ward off addiction, and heal properly.
We know the
opioid crisis is effecting our Veterans here in Ohio as well. The VFW is here
to assist our comrades fight this problem. The following link is to our State
Service Officers who may be able to help you find the help you may need
email: justin.maloney@va.govfor the Cincinnati area and jeffrey.rollins325@va.gov for the Dayton area.
For help recovering from addiction please visit: Ohio Addiction
Resource Center: https://addictionresourcecenter.org from the Addiction Policy Forum
Other Resources
- Military Helpline: This crisis hotline is staffed by
members of the military who understand the stresses and challenges faced
by veterans and their families. Active members of the military, veterans,
and families can call (888) 457-4838 to discuss issues like substance
abuse, PTSD, anger, suicidal feelings, depression, and any other issue
that affects quality of life in this population.
- National
Center for PTSD:
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this website is a
resource center of information on post-traumatic stress disorder, one of
the most common reasons for substance abuse among veterans. The website
provides education, background information, and access to resources on
PTSD.
- Operation Homefront: This program oversees a range of programs
that support military members and their families, including emergency
assistance funds, transitional housing services, mortgage-free home
awards, and resources for spouses and children.
- Substance
Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Publications and
Resources on Veterans and Military Families: This government agency and leader in
substance abuse treatment and research provides a detailed list of
services, tools, and informational materials on addiction for veterans and
their loved ones.
- S.
Department of Health & Human Services: Supporting Military Families: This website lists resources on a broad
range of topics affecting military members and their families, including
general health, mental health, substance abuse, and other relevant topics.
- VA Caregiver Support: This program provides assistance for
family members who dedicate their time and resources to caring for injured
or disabled veterans. The website includes a list of tools, services, and
information about benefits available to spouses or other family members.
To contact the VA by telephone, family members can call the Caregiver
Support Line at (855) 260-3274.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Veterans and families seeking help in a
crisis situation can contact a Department of Veterans Affairs responder at
any time of the day or night, 365 days a year, by phone, text, or online
chat. For confidential assistance, call (800) 273-8255, or send a text to
838255. The crisis line’s website includes resources and tools on how to
identify signs of a potential mental health or substance abuse problem,
and how to find treatment options for oneself or a loved one.
- Veterans Alcohol and Drug
Dependence Rehabilitation Program: Managed by the Veterans Health
Association, this program provides rehabilitation services to veterans
with substance abuse issues. Covered treatment includes detoxification
programs, alcohol or drug rehab, and psychiatric care.
- Women
Veterans Call Center:
Staffed by VA employees, this call center is dedicated to answering
questions and providing resources on the concerns of female vets. Veterans
or family members are welcome to call the center at (855) VA-WOMEN.