While treatment can help you reclaim your well-being, it’s important to know that addiction isn’t something you “cure.” But where does that leave you if you’re living with a substance use disorder (SUD) and wondering whether it qualifies as a VA disability?
Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits are designed to support those who’ve served in the U.S. Armed Forces, providing financial assistance for illnesses or injuries connected to their service. What you might not know is that these benefits can also extend to mental health conditions, including SUDs. Let’s explore what that means for you.
When Does the VA Consider Addiction a Disability?
VA benefits do not outright cover addiction, but it can qualify as a service-connected mental health condition. If your underlying health condition caused or led to the development of an SUD, disability benefits may apply. Here are some examples:
- You suffered a catastrophic injury during your service, such as the loss of a limb. The mental health impact of depression led to your use of alcohol as you dealt with the depression your injury brought on.
- You were injured in a vehicle accident while on duty, causing severe back pain. The chronic pain led to a dependence on opioids.
- You struggled with the events you experienced during your service, developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result. You turned to substances to help you navigate the intense feelings and reliving of what you saw.
In these situations, the underlying injury or disease was brought on by service in the military, making it likely eligible for VA disability benefits. Your development of SUD occurred as a result of those injuries. That means you may be able to obtain benefits to cover SUD treatment.
The Ranch at Dove Tree in Lubbock, Texas, works with those who have VA benefits to use as a treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. We encourage you to contact our team for help navigating the services we can offer you.
How Can the VA Help With Addiction Treatment?
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides financial support and access to care for those who are struggling with substance use disorder. If you believe you are suffering from addiction or other mental health disorders, seek out help immediately. We can help you.
The care you may receive for SUD treatment depends on your specific needs. The healthcare services provided to military Veterans may provide you with a range of supportive services you need, including:
- Inpatient treatment
- Detoxification services
- Medical care to help you stabilize your health
- Mental health support through counseling
- Addiction treatment on an ongoing basis
Understanding Tactical Recovery
One of the services we offer is Tactical Recovery for addiction treatment. It is a resource that enables Veterans facing intense complications to mental health, including PTSD, as well as substance use disorders, to get the care they need in a space that understands the unique challenges they are facing.
Treatment for PTSD and SUD takes into consideration the traumatic events and unique situations Veterans face. Our program works to navigate the barriers to seeking treatment, including stigma, perceived weakness, professional consequences, and self-reliance.
We address your specific needs through an individualized treatment plan. You can expect us to provide you with the care you need under the VA benefits you have. Addiction treatment for veterans can be life-changing.
How To Get Help for Addiction As a Veteran
Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces know the pressure, intensity, and challenge of their work. You also need to know that there’s help for you when you need it. VA health benefits, even without VA disability, can cover your care needs at The Ranch at Dove Tree. We are approved to accept VA health benefits through the Community Care Network. You can choose the provider you want to work with for your addiction treatment.
So, then, how do you get help for addiction if you are a Veteran? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Reach Out to Our Team: We’re here for you 24/7. Whether you’re looking for answers, support, or a listening ear, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
- Get an Assessment: Your recovery journey begins with a personalized assessment. This helps us determine the type of care that best fits your unique needs and circumstances.
- Start with Detox: For many Veterans, detox is the first step. This medically supervised program helps reset your body and mind while easing the intense dependency that substances create.
- Engage in Therapy: In our residential treatment program, you’ll participate in one-on-one counseling and group therapy. Here, you’ll connect with others who truly understand your struggles because they’ve faced similar challenges. Together, you’ll build resilience and rediscover your strength.
Transition to Life at Home: Once you’ve regained confidence and stability, you’ll return home to a drug-free environment. But the support doesn’t end there—you’ll continue to have access to ongoing care to ensure lasting recovery.
