Welcome to supportyourvet.org

Some Veterans abuse drugs and alcohol as a way of coping with the traumatic events they experienced during their deployment. And although passing out, missing work, and letting down family and friends is no way to live, for many Veterans, it might feel better than dealing with flashbacks, nightmares, and pain.

If your spouse, parent, or friend is using alcohol or drugs, you may notice that it makes them feel better for a short time. They may seem calmer, happier, and less nervous. Unfortunately, these benefits won't last, and their continued self-medication with drugs and alcohol can lead to substance abuse or the physical abuse of loved ones.

What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse is drug or alcohol use that interferes with a person's daily life. If your friend or family member is abusing drugs or alcohol, they may become dependent. They may need more drugs or alcohol to achieve the same effect. They may suffer withdrawal symptoms if they try to quit. Substance abuse will not fix existing problems, and it may even create new ones.

When do alcohol and drugs become a problem?

Your loved one may have a problem with alcohol or drugs if they experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• They spend a lot of their time drunk or high
• Their alcohol or drug use is interfering with their job or household responsibilities
• They are drinking or doing more drugs than they used to
• They've gotten sick after trying to cut down or quit drugs and alcohol
• Other friends and family members have made comments about their drug or alcohol use
• They've had an incidence of violence or a problem with the police

Talk to your loved one.

Talking about problems like substance abuse can help you and your loved one get help sooner, which can increase the chance of recovery. It also lets your friend or family member know that they are not alone. Use the following tips, and learn more about how to start a conversation with your loved one.

• Let them know that you're concerned
• Be a good listener
• Be positive
• Ask how you can help
• Avoid giving advice unless asked
• Suggest resources

Get help for your Veteran.

If your friend or family member is abusing alcohol or using drugs, it's important to get help.

Contact your health care professional

• Find your nearest VA hospital by calling 877-222-VETS
• Check out the Vet Center Readjustment Services
• Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website
• Call Military OneSource at 1-800-342-9647 for confidential information
• Call the VFW or American Legion for Veteran support services
• Encourage your loved one to talk with other Veterans on CommunityofVeterans.org

Get help for yourself.

• Talk with other family and friends in the SupportYourVet.org forum
• Contact your health care professional
• Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website
• Call the VFW or American Legion for Veteran support services
• Visit GiveAnHour.org for free mental health services