Choosing an Inpatient Addiction Program for Veterans
Residential rehab programs for veterans can offer specialized addiction treatment to support the particular needs of veterans. Military personnel frequently experience higher levels of stress that are not commonly encountered by the general population. This can contribute to substance use disorders being common among this group, such as alcohol use disorder and prescription drug abuse including opioids.
Data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that 3.7 million veterans have either a substance use disorder or mental health disorders. SAMHSA has reported a significant increase in mental illness among veterans from 2008 to 2018, indicating the severity of the problem. An increase in substance abuse and mental illness among veterans is associated with the difficulties they encounter in transitioning back to civilian life.
Veterans require extensive support and should be provided with the most comprehensive services when accessing health care. Inpatient facilities like Riverside Recovery of Tampa, have implemented programming specifically tailored to the needs of veterans.
What Is Residential Rehab Treatment?
Inpatient rehab, also known as residential rehab, involves staying at a rehabilitation facility on a full-time basis while undergoing supervised treatment for drug and/or alcohol addiction.
When a person is admitted to inpatient drug or alcohol rehabilitation, they become a full-time resident of their treatment program and are provided with 24/7 medical care and support. Participants in the inpatient program may reside alone in a private room or share a room with a roommate. Clients at Riverside Recovery are also provided with catered meals at our facility and regularly attend one-on-one or group therapy sessions. The average length of stay is 30 days, however, the amount of time is based on the individual’s needs for long-term recovery and relapse prevention.
A residential treatment center, such as Riverside Recovery, gives individuals the opportunity to stay on-site during their treatment program and dedicate more time to achieving long-term recovery. At the facility, participants have the opportunity to gain stress management, life skills, and structure that can be applied after they leave treatment.
Inpatient Programs Specialized for Veterans
Inpatient rehabilitation facilities may offer programs tailored to veterans’ needs. The treatment team for veteran-specific programs is trained in best practices for providing care to veterans, with an emphasis on creating a supportive environment. In the beginning stages of recovery, the focus of treatment is on gaining insight into personal life events and exploring individual responses to them. Your story can aid you and your treatment team in creating a safe and tailored plan of action, as well as an effective routine once you are discharged.
Treatment programs for veterans usually involve treating both substance use disorders and mental health issues (often referred to as co-occurring disorders), which are more common among combat veterans and homeless veterans. Substance abuse has often been linked to a traumatic event that can lead to mental health issues such as guilt, shame, anger, and hopelessness long after the incident has occurred. Evidence suggests that mental health disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, are connected to substance use disorder and should be addressed accordingly.
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Common Therapies Used For Veteran Treatment
Residential treatment is designed to assist in promoting stability and establishing a platform for recovery. Individualized treatment plans are personalized to suit your circumstances and are based on the severity of your medical and mental health needs. At Riverside Recovery, our qualified clinical and medical experts specialized in addiction and work with you to prioritize your care.
The following therapies are common in a residential rehab program:
- Medically supervised detoxification
- Medication-assisted therapy (MAT)
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy
- Specialty therapies such as co-occurring disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT) relapse prevention, veteran support, post-traumatic stress disorders
Inpatient vs Outpatient Programs Specialized for Veterans
The services offered in inpatient, outpatient, and residential rehab facilities vary depending on the level of care required, housing options, family responsibilities, and whether individuals have the opportunity to continue working or attending school during treatment.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient rehab centers offer around-the-clock professional services such as medical, nursing, and counseling; medication administration; catered meals; accommodations; and organized activities. Inpatient residents may have to take time off from work or school and arrange childcare during their stay.
Residential rehabilitation programs for veterans provide a structured and supportive environment for individuals who are transitioning from military service to civilian life. During their stay in the inpatient program, veterans will receive support from dedicated counselors and staff members focused on helping them address a variety of challenges related to the transition process.
Outpatient Programs
Outpatient programs (OP) can be beneficial for veterans who may not require or want the intensity of a residential rehab program. Participating in an outpatient program allows veterans to stay in their own homes or sober living environment and access treatment while continuing to work, attend school, and care for family members.
The positive aspects of outpatient programs include the flexibility that these programs provide as they are typically offered several times throughout the week.
However, OP programs typically require more self-discipline and personal commitment to recovery than inpatient treatment.
Does VA Insurance Cover Inpatient Addiction Treatment?
The cost of inpatient residential rehab for veterans depends on a variety of factors, including the duration of stay, the level of services received, and the type of insurance. Under the MISSION Act, veterans can access approved care from community care providers outside of the VA. Additionally, third-party payers like Optum and TRICARE are accepted.
VA benefits can be used to cover addiction treatment, similar to other insurance plans. Your VA medical center doctor can help you or your loved one choose a care plan and discuss the best options for your needs.
Why Are Veterans At A High Risk For Addiction?
Veterans are at an increased risk for addiction due to a variety of factors. Many veterans experience varying levels of trauma during active duty, such as combat stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This trauma can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues that can increase the risk of addiction. Additionally, the military culture often encourages drinking and drug use which can further increase the risk of addiction.
Residential rehab programs and outpatient (OP) programs can be beneficial for veterans who are struggling with addiction. Residential rehab provides a safe and supportive environment where veterans receive 24-hour care and guidance from healthcare professionals while OP programs offer more flexibility, allowing veterans to continue to work, attend school, and care for family members while participating in treatment. VA benefits can be used to cover addiction treatment, similar to other insurance plans. Ultimately, it is important for veterans to receive the right type of care in order to ensure a successful recovery.
Signs of Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Drug and alcohol addiction can be extremely difficult for individuals to overcome, especially when it comes to veterans who have specific needs that must be met. While residential rehab programs for veterans offer a unique approach to treating addiction, there are some signs of drug or alcohol addiction that can help veterans to identify if they need help before it’s too late.
Common signs of an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol include the following:
- an inability to control the amount of drug or alcohol use
- changes in behavior, such as increased isolation from family and friends
- decreased work performance
- legal troubles
- and financial difficulties
Common physical symptoms of substance abuse include:
- fatigue
- changes in appetite
- changes in sleep patterns
Where To Get VA Community Care & Addiction Treatment
These are just a few of the common warning signs of an addiction problem. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these signs, seeking professional help is essential. A qualified healthcare provider can provide an individualized treatment plan that will address any underlying issues and help you on your journey to recovery.
VA community care is a wide range of services that are available to those who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces. These services can be accessed through a variety of sources, including local and state veterans’ organizations, private providers, community health centers, and residential rehab programs.
Local and state veterans’ organizations typically provide mental health counseling and treatment options such as residential rehab and outpatient care, as well as support groups and other resources. Private providers, like Riverside Recovery of Tampa, may also offer a variety of services for veterans, including addiction treatment. Community health centers often provide primary care services, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment programs for veterans.
Riverside Recovery of Tampa Supports Our Veterans
Riverside Recovery of Tampa is part of the VA community care network. Veterans are able to access our residential, outpatient, and other levels of care using their Veteran Administration benefits.
At Riverside Recovery, we are proud to offer residential rehab programs for veterans. Our team understands the unique challenges that veterans face and are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to those who have served our country. Our residential program provides a safe and supportive environment where veterans can get the help they need to address their mental health, addiction, and other issues.
Our experienced team of clinicians and other medical professionals is committed to helping veterans on their journey to recovery. We strive to provide our clients with the compassion, understanding, and respect they need to successfully overcome addiction and start a new life. Contact us today for more information about our residential rehab program for veterans.