Veterans reintegrating into civilian life may face many emotional hurdles due to traumatic events experienced in the military.
Many veterans cope with these stressors with alcohol and other illicit or prescription drugs at their disposal.
In recent surveys, nearly 60 percent of veterans in substance abuse treatment programs report alcohol as their coping mechanism of choice.
In Worcester, MA there are several locations that provide the evidence-based treatment required to address the unique needs of veterans seeking sobriety.
Worcester, MA Veterans Rehabilitation Centers
Our team has selected the following treatment centers that provide recovery services for veterans and their specific needs.
These rehab programs feature qualifications such as:
- nationally recognized accreditation
- high Google ratings
- positive client testimonials
- awards and other accolades
1. Community Healthlink, Worcester, Massachusetts
Veterans may receive treatment at this rehab facility using funding options such as Tricare (military insurance), private health insurance, and state-awarded block grants.
Drug and alcohol rehab services include:
- residential treatment services
- detoxification
- counseling for young adults
- medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- aftercare services
Community Healthlink features accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and an array of evidence-based practices for addiction disorders.
Location and contact information:
12 Queen St.
3rd Fl.
Worcester, MA 01610
(508) 860-1237
2. Luk, Worcester, Massachusetts
Luk offers an outpatient program where veterans can find individual counseling, family counseling, mental health services, and suicide prevention services.
This rehab center is backed by accreditation from the Council on Accreditation (COA) and a 4.2-star Google rating.
Location and contact information:
40 Southbridge St.
Worcester, MA 01608
(508) 762-3000
3. Spectrum Health Systems, Worcester, Massachusetts
Here, veterans may receive evidence-based treatments such as detox, co-occurring disorders treatment, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), MAT, and more.
This treatment facility is backed by:
- CARF accreditation
- positive client testimonials
- high Google ratings
Spectrum Health Systems can be paid for using Tricare, Medicaid, and any other government funding for substance use treatment programs.
Location and contact information:
105 Merrick St.
Worcester, MA 01609
(508) 797-6100
Rates Of Substance Abuse In Veterans
Currently, over 1.1 million veterans live with a substance use disorder. Of these, 25 percent are addicted to illegal or prescription drugs while 80 percent report misusing alcohol.
Some veterans may have developed their addictions while on active duty, while others turn to drug and alcohol use as a way to cope with reintegrating into civilian life.
While the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has attempted to address the issue of veteran substance abuse over the decades, rates continue to rise.
This trend may be attributable to recent conflicts overseas and the proliferation of chronic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Factors That Contribute To Drug And Alcohol Abuse In Veterans
There are several issues that may contribute to substance abuse in veterans.
Influencing factors may include:
- a family history of substance use
- co-occurring mental health disorders
- interpersonal stressors
- homelessness
- PTSD
- traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- other environmental factors
Veterans with substance use disorders are at much higher risk for chronic health problems and suicide. Findings show that veterans who drink or use drugs are twice as likely to attempt suicide.
Treatment Options Through The VA In Worcester, MA
The VA offers several levels of care to veterans in need of treatment for drug and alcohol abuse.
Treatment services at the VA include:
- drug screenings
- medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- outpatient treatment
- inpatient treatment
- residential care
- medical detoxification
- relapse prevention
- dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring disorders
- support groups for opioid addiction
The VA also offers specialized rehab programs for women veterans, homeless veterans, and returning combat veterans. To be eligible for VA benefits, you must first apply for VA health care.
Treatment Services For Veterans Through Tricare
Tricare is a health insurance program operated by the federal government. It is designed for active duty service members, retired veterans, their eligible family members, and survivors.
There is a range of treatment services provided through Tricare for eligible members, including partial hospitalization programs (PHP), MAT, detox, and counseling services.
People with Tricare can typically get services at little to no cost, and Tricare covers addiction treatments proven to be effective against substance abuse.
Worcester, MA Veterans Rehab FAQ
Finding an addiction treatment program for veterans may be stressful, but help is available. The frequently asked questions below may help you narrow your search.
Does The VA Consider Alcoholism A Disability?
If a military member or veteran developed an alcohol use disorder due to a service-related injury, it may be claimed as a disability.
Can I Get Free Addiction Treatment At The VA?
Yes. Veterans eligible for VA health care will qualify for free inpatient or outpatient drug and alcohol rehab services.
Are All Veterans Eligible For Tricare?
No, only retired veterans and their beneficiaries are eligible for veterans benefits under Tricare.
Find Substance Abuse Treatment For Veterans In Worcester, MA
If you or a loved one need help with alcohol or drug abuse, there are many drug rehab programs in Worcester, MA to choose from.
Call our helpline today for more information. Our team can help you find a rehab center in your area, or provide a referral for medical advice.
Article resourcesAddiction 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) — Military Life and Substance Use
https://nida.nih.gov/drug-topics/military-life-substance-use - Tricare — Eligibility
https://www.tricare.mil/Plans/Eligibility - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) — Substance use treatment for Veterans
https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/substance-use-problems/