Drug and alcohol abuse is more common among veterans than that of the non-military population. This is primarily due to the stressors veterans face when attempting to reintegrate into civilian life.
Common issues facing veterans include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), other co-occurring mental health disorders, homelessness, relationship stressors, and more.
In Bridgeport, Connecticut, there are several options when it comes to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment designed for the specific needs of veterans.
Bridgeport, CT Drug And Alcohol Rehab Centers For Veterans
The following veterans alcohol and drug treatment centers were chosen based on criteria such as accreditation status, Google ratings, client testimonials, awards, and other accolades.
1. Chemical Abuse Services Agency (CASA), Bridgeport, Connecticut
CASA is a nonprofit, community-based behavioral health organization that provides treatment services targeted to veterans and other people with a history of traumatic experiences.
Treatment options include:
- medication assisted treatment (MAT)
- trauma-related counseling
- motivational interviewing
- aftercare
This rehab program is backed by Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation, a 5-star Google rating, and excellent client testimonials.
Location and contact information:
1124 Iranistan Ave.
Bridgeport, CT 06605
(203) 331-4728
2. Recovery Network, Bridgeport, Connecticut
At Recovery Network, veterans can find a range of services including co-occurring disorder treatment, 24-hour residential care, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and relapse prevention.
This program features CARF accreditation, a 3.7-star Google rating, and positive testimonials from past clients.
Location and contact information:
392 Prospect St.
Bridgeport, CT 06604
(203) 610-6252 x755
3. St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Bridgeport, Connecticut
The outpatient behavioral health program at St. Vincent’s Medical Center offers veterans evidence-based services such as MAT, intensive outpatient treatment, CBT, and more.
Best qualities of this treatment center include Joint Commission accreditation, positive reviews on Google, and several evidence-based treatments.
Here, veterans may use Tricare insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or private health insurance to cover the cost of treatment.
Location and contact information:
2400 Main St.
Bridgeport, CT 06606
(203) 362-3900
Substance Use Rates In Veterans
Substance abuse among military veterans has been going up in recent years. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), about 10 percent of war vets currently misuse drugs or alcohol.
Additionally, one out of every three veterans seeking help for substance use disorders also has PTSD or other mental health issues.
Alcohol is the most common substance abused by veterans, followed by marijuana and prescription opioid abuse.
Forty-five percent of veteran suicide attempts since 2003 involved alcohol or drug use, and an estimated 20 percent of high-risk behavior deaths are attributable to substance use.
Factors That Influence Drug And Alcohol Abuse In Veterans
There are several factors that may contribute to alcohol and drug abuse in veterans. These factors may be related to experiences while on active duty, or a veteran’s genetic disposition to addiction.
Influencing factors include:
- co-occurring mental health disorders such as PTSD and depression
- homelessness
- a family history of addiction
- peer pressure
- relationship stressors
- living in an environment where drugs are used
- a past history of substance use
Veterans in need of free or low-cost treatment for drug and alcohol misuse may find reputable, evidence-based care at their local VA medical center or clinic.
Behavioral Health Programs Available Through The VA In Bridgeport, CT
While there is not a VA medical center in Bridgeport, CT, the West Haven VA Medical Center offers a range of mental health services and substance abuse treatments.
Addiction treatment options at the VA include:
- medically monitored detox
- individual, family, and group therapy
- outpatient treatment
- inpatient treatment
- dual diagnosis treatment
- 12-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous
To receive VA health care, veterans must first visit their local VA center, visit the VA.gov website, or call the VA phone number to apply for benefits.
Substance Use Disorder Treatments Covered By Tricare
Tricare is a federally run health insurance program designed for active duty military members, retired veterans, their family members, and their eligible dependents.
Addiction treatment services covered by Tricare include partial hospitalization programs (PHP), detoxification, MAT, residential treatment, and mental health therapeutic services.
Bridgeport, CT Veterans Rehabilitation FAQs
The frequently asked questions below may help you or your loved one find a drug and alcohol rehab facility for veterans.
Are All Rehab Programs Through The VA Free Of Charge?
Yes, eligible veterans can receive free outpatient and inpatient addiction treatment at the VA.
Does Tricare Cover Holistic Treatments And Unproven Therapies?
Typically, Tricare only covers proven therapies unless the holistic treatments are part of a comprehensive, research-based treatment plan.
What If I Don’t Qualify For Tricare Or VA Health Benefits?
Veterans may find treatment at a nonprofit center, a government-run facility, or cover treatment using health insurance programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, or private health insurance.
Find Addiction Recovery Services For Veterans In Bridgeport, CT
Whether you’re located in Bridgeport, New Haven, Fairfield, or Danbury, our team can assist you in finding a treatment provider that will put you on the path to recovery.
Call our helpline today for more information on treatment for alcohol and drug addiction. Our team can also provide you with a referral for additional medical advice.
Published on June 6, 2022
Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.
These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) — Substance Use and Military Life DrugFacts
https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/substance-use-military-life - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — Find Treatment
https://findtreatment.gov - Tricare.mil — Substance Use Disorder Treatment
https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/IsItCovered/SubstanceUseDisorderTreatment