Massachusetts Veterans Drug Rehab Centers (VA, Tricare)

When veterans transition back into civilian life, it can pose a significant risk for the onset of substance use disorders.

The rates of drug abuse increase substantially when a service member leaves the military, with alcohol and marijuana topping the list for most commonly misused substances.

Issues that veterans may face may be related to injuries acquired while serving, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and unhealthy binge drinking habits.

Massachusetts Veterans Rehabilitation Centers

There are several treatment facilities throughout Massachusetts that offer evidence-based care for substance use disorders.

The following rehab programs were chosen based on their accreditation status, client testimonials, and services offered specifically for veterans and their unique needs.

Find the best veterans rehab centers in the U.S.

1. Banyan Treatment Center, Wilmington, Massachusetts

Banyan Treatment Center offers several evidence-based treatment services tailored towards the needs of vets with a drug or alcohol addiction.

Treatment options include:

• partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
• intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
• short-term residential treatment
• cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• relapse prevention
• medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
• medically monitored detox
• aftercare

Banyan Treatment Center is equipped to treat several types of addictions including heroin addiction, alcoholism, cocaine addiction, methamphetamine abuse, and more.

This rehab facility accepts Tricare and is backed by Joint Commission accreditation, positive client feedback, and high reviews on Google.

2. Bedrock Recovery Center, Canton, Massachusetts

This addiction treatment facility in Canton, MA specializes in inpatient treatment for drug and alcohol dependence. Bedrock Recovery Center (BRC) is equipped with 120 beds and three separate units.

Services offered here include daily clinical care, group therapy, family therapy, support groups, and outpatient treatment to help build a strong support network.

Bedrock Recovery Center is backed by:

• Joint Commission accreditation
• accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)
• a 4.1-star Google rating
• positive client testimonials

Veterans may receive services at BRC through Tricare (military insurance), private insurance, and self payment.

3. Health Care Resource Centers (HCRC), Boston, Massachusetts

HCRC is an evidence-based treatment program that can assist veterans with substance use disorders involving opioids such as prescription pain medications, heroin, and fentanyl.

The cornerstone of treatment services at this location is MAT, which helps reduce the effects of opioid withdrawal and assists in diminishing cravings that may lead to relapse.

Treatment plans offered at HCRC will address physical dependency as well as the mental and emotional effects that substance abuse has on the veteran’s life.

This rehab center is backed by accreditation from CARF, excellent testimonials from past clients, and a 4.1-star rating on Google.

Substance Abuse And Addiction Among Veterans

Substance use disorders among military veterans are a serious problem and can be associated with several negative effects including increased depression, anxiety, and other medical problems.

Studies have shown that approximately 30 percent of suicides among veterans were preceded by drug or alcohol use, and 20 percent of high-risk behavior deaths are attributable to substance use.

Some surveys have shown that the negative consequences of substance abuse (e.g. legal, professional, and interpersonal consequences) are twice as prevalent for veterans than non-military personnel in the same age group.

While the most common substance misused by veterans is alcohol, prescription drug abuse is on the rise. Opioids are often prescribed to veterans to address chronic pain and migraines related to their time in the service.

Factors That Impact Substance Abuse In Veterans

There are several factors that impact substance abuse in veterans. If you or a loved one have been in the military and have a substance use disorder, the following information may help you understand the triggers of drug and alcohol use.

Family History Of Addiction

While the rigors of military life may leave lingering emotional and physical scars, genetics is still one of the most influential causes of addiction.

No one knows how the proclivity towards addiction may be passed down through the generations, but research has shown a strong correlation between a family history of addiction and an increased risk of developing addiction.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

One of the most prevalent causes of drug and alcohol abuse among veterans is PTSD. Traumatic experiences such as combat or sexual assault may be hard to process and lead to substance abuse.

Common symptoms of PTSD include the onset of panic disorder, actively avoiding situations that may trigger memories of the traumatic event, and recurring nightmares and flashbacks.

Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

The link between mental health and addiction is undeniable. Some studies have shown that nearly half of people with mental health disorders also have a substance use disorder.

When mental illness is left untreated, people may turn to alcohol and drugs as a coping mechanism for their pain. On the contrary, substance use makes mental health conditions worse.

Vets can seek a treatment program that offers dual diagnosis treatment. These types of services will treat both the addiction as well as the underlying mental health condition that feeds the addiction.

What Addiction Treatment Options Are Available For Veterans Through The VA?

The Veterans Administration (VA) in Massachusetts offers several programs for veterans seeking treatment for substance use problems ranging from alcohol use to illicit drug addiction.

Treatment services available through the VA healthcare system include:

• medically managed detox
• medication-assisted treatment using methadone and buprenorphine
• short-term outpatient counseling
• intensive outpatient programs
• residential care
• relapse prevention services

In addition to evidence-based rehab services, the VA also offers special programs for veterans such as women veterans, returning combat veterans, and veterans who are homeless.

Drug And Alcohol Treatment Programs Covered By Tricare

Tricare is a federally funded healthcare program designed for active duty service members, the National Guard, Reservists, retirees, and retiree family members.

Tricare typically covers 100 percent of the cost of services that are medically necessary. While drug rehab would be considered an essential service, the cost of holistic and experimental therapies may not be covered.

Examples of medically necessary services include MAT, detoxification services, individual and group counseling, 12-step programs, and continuing care.

Find A Massachusetts Drug Rehab Center For Veterans

If you or a loved one are in need of drug or alcohol rehab services for veterans, call our helpline today. Our team can help you find a treatment provider in your area.

Select a city to find a veterans rehab center near you:

• Boston, MA
• Brockton, MA
• Cambridge, MA
• Canton, MA
• Fall River, MA
• Lowell, MA
• Lynn, MA
• New Bedford, MA
• Quincy, MA
• Springfield, MA
• Worcester, MA

Published on April 14, 2022

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff