Veterans Benefit from Relapse Prevention Treatment Options

Key Takeaways¶

• Veterans are more likely to drink again because of depression and trauma-related triggers.
• To be effective, relapse prevention treatment must deal with both the mental and physical aspects of recovering from addiction.
• Rehab centers in Chandler offer specialized services tailored to Veterans, taking into account their unique military experiences and needs.
• Tools like HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) are crucial for identifying and addressing factors that can lead to relapse.
• Veterans are more likely to stay sober after going to rehab for alcohol addiction and depression care. 

Introduction¶

relapse prevention treatment

VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guidelines, 2021

Why Do Veterans Have a Higher Risk of Going Back to Drinking?¶

• Unresolved trauma from serving in the military or combat
• Long-term depression and lack of emotional connection
• Being alone and cut off from civilian life
• No structure after leaving the military
• Co-occurring disorders, such as chronic pain or anxiety

veteran treatment programs

What Is HALT, and How Does It Help Stop People From Relapsing?¶

The HALT method

• Hungry: Not getting enough nutrients can cause mood instability. Veterans should be encouraged to eat regular meals and maintain a balanced diet.
• Angry: Unresolved anger, especially if it comes from trauma, can make you want to hurt others or self-medicate. It’s essential to learn how to deal with anger and get help for trauma.
• Lonely: It’s common to feel alone after service. Community support or group therapy can help you fight loneliness.
• Tired: Being mentally or physically tired makes it harder to resist cravings. Taking care of your sleep, getting enough rest, and managing chronic pain are all essential components of recovery.

What Does Treatment for Relapse Prevention Involve?¶

relapse prevention program

• Behavioural therapy: Veterans learn how to recognise the signs of relapse and how to manage them effectively. CBT and DBT are two types of treatment that can help change the way you think and make you less impulsive.
• Mapping triggers: Veterans can name specific things that might make them relapse, like loud noises, crowds, anniversaries of bad things that happened, or feelings of worthlessness.
• Making a routine: Life in the military is organized. Often, civilian life isn’t. Setting up daily routines can help reduce chaos and make things more predictable.
• Peer support and community: Group therapy and alumni networks provide a sense of brotherhood and understanding, which is crucial for preventing relapse when you’re feeling lonely.
• Care for the body and mind: Taking medicine for depression or alcohol cravings and checking in regularly makes sure that both the mind and body are getting the help they need.
• Building skills and aftercare: As part of relapse prevention, Veterans are equipped with the necessary tools to reintegrate into society, including job skills, effective communication strategies, and ongoing accountability.

Why Should Veterans Go to Rehab Centers in Chandler, AZ?¶

specialized care for Veterans

• Trauma-informed therapists lead group therapy sessions just for Veterans
• Access to trauma therapy for PTSD caused by combat
• Different types of programs, such as inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization
• Continuity of care for both mental health and addiction
• Options for holistic healing include Yoga, Equine therapy, and mindfulness.

strength and discipline

How Does Rehab for Alcohol Addiction Help People Stay Sober for a Long Time?¶

Alcohol addiction rehab

• Medical detox to safely deal with withdrawal
• Individualized treatment plans for people with both depression and anxiety
• Veterans in long-term recovery can be peer mentors.
• Ongoing counseling to help with emotional processing and making changes to your life

VA Whole Health, 2023

Conclusion¶

depression

Virtue Recovery Chandler

rehab centers in Chandler, AZ

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866-338-5779

How Can Trauma-Informed Care Support Veterans in Relapse Prevention for Alcohol Cravings?¶

Understanding traumainformed care in addiction recovery is essential for supporting veterans facing alcohol cravings. This approach recognizes the profound impact of trauma on behavior and decision-making, providing a safe and supportive environment. By addressing underlying issues and fostering resilience, veterans can effectively manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse.

FAQs¶

What is different about relapse prevention for Veterans?¶

What effect does depression have on drinking again?¶

What does the HALT method mean in addiction recovery?¶

Is it possible for relapse prevention treatment to involve medication?¶

Resources:¶

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  Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Complementary Approaches. Whole Health Library, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, updated 2023, https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/substance-use-disorder-treatment-complementary-approaches.asp
  
  
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  Cognitive Processing Therapy for Veterans with Comorbid PTSD and Alcohol Use Disorders. PubMed Central, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3855895/
  
  
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  Management of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) (2021). VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guidelines, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense, 2021, https://www.healthquality.va.gov/guidelines/MH/sud/