Alcohol and illicit drug abuse among U.S. veterans have steadily risen over the past few decades. With these increasing rates, the demand for drug rehab has increased as well.
Veterans may use drugs or alcohol to alleviate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, chronic pain, or issues related to co-occurring mental health disorders.
There are many resources available in New Hampshire for veterans seeking care. Services may be accessed through programs such as Tricare (military insurance), or through Veterans Affairs (VA).
New Hampshire Veterans Rehabilitation Centers
New Hampshire is home to several treatment facilities that provide evidence-based services for veterans with substance use disorders.
The following rehab centers were chosen for qualities such as:
- accreditation status
- high Google ratings
- positive client testimonials
- state licensure or certification status
- awards and other accolades
Read about top veteran rehab centers in the U.S.
1. Acadia Healthcare, West Lebanon, New Hampshire
This behavioral health facility treats an array of issues related to veterans, including mental health concerns and drug and alcohol addiction.
Treatment services offered here include:
- inpatient and outpatient care
- medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring disorders
- intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- detoxification
Features of this rehab program include accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and Joint Commission accreditation.
Location and contact information:
254 Plainfield Rd.
West Lebanon, NH 03784
(603) 298-2146
2. Health Care Resource Centers (HCRC), Hudson, New Hampshire
HCRC provides medication-assisted treatment (MAT), individual and family counseling, PTSD therapy, medically monitored detoxification, and more.
This treatment center is backed by:
- CARF accreditation
- positive testimonials from past clients
- high ratings on Google
Veterans can utilize Tricare insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance plans to pay for treatment at this facility.
Location and contact information:
323 Derry Rd.
Hudson, NH 03051
(603) 595-3399
3. WestBridge, Manchester, New Hampshire
WestBridge is a nonprofit rehab facility that offers residential treatment for men experiencing mental illness with or without co-occurring substance use.
Treatment options include:
- trauma-related counseling
- cognitive behavioral therapy
- short-term and long-term residential care
- aftercare services
The inpatient rehab program is fully licensed by the state of New Hampshire and features accreditation from CARF, as well as excellent client testimonials.
Veterans may access care at WestBridge through Tricare, tribal (ITU) funds, or private health insurance plans.
Location and contact information:
660 Chestnut St.
Manchester, NH 03104
(877) 461-7711
Substance Abuse Among Veterans
Substance use disorder is a diagnosable condition that involves compulsive alcohol or drug use regardless of the harmful consequences that may follow.
While over 20 percent of active-duty military members report binge drinking or alcohol abuse over the past month, prescription drug misuse is increasing as well.
Among military members and veterans, the majority of prescription drug abuse involves opioid painkillers such as OxyContin (oxycodone) and Vicodin (hydrocodone).
Combat veterans may struggle severely with PTSD, which is a common co-occurring disorder with substance abuse. Over 80 percent of war veterans with a substance use disorder also have a mental health disorder.
Factors That Affect Drug And Alcohol Addiction Among Veterans
There are several factors that contribute to drug and alcohol addiction among veterans, including traumatic experiences, barriers to mental health treatment, genetic disposition, and more.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars may have been through multiple overseas deployments and may be at high risk of developing PTSD and other mental health disorders.
PTSD symptoms include flashbacks of the traumatic event, vivid nightmares, sleeping problems, and constant avoidance of things that may trigger a memory of the event.
Both male and female veterans experience sexual assault while in the military, and may have lingering PTSD, depression, or anxiety. Veterans may turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with the trauma they experienced while in the service.
Family History
Genetics play an important role in a person’s susceptibility to substance abuse. Studies show that if a person has addiction in the family they may be at higher risk for drug or alcohol abuse.
While a family history of substance abuse isn’t always a guarantee that you will also get addicted to substances, it does increase the risk, especially when other exacerbating factors are present.
Barriers To Treatment
Many veterans have issues finding reputable treatment because of a lack of resources and treatment programs that fit their unique needs.
Veterans may also be deterred from seeking help for substance abuse due to the perceived stigma of drug and alcohol addiction.
Many ex-service members with substance use disorders or co-occurring disorders may endure homelessness due to a lack of reputable treatment programs in their area.
Addiction Treatment Available To Veterans Through The VA
Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a range of substance abuse treatment programs for eligible military service veterans in New Hampshire.
Treatment options may include:
- buprenorphine and methadone maintenance
- medically monitored detoxification
- counseling for PTSD
- dual diagnosis treatment
- counseling with family members
- group therapy for vets
If you or a loved one are interested in receiving free care through the VA, contact the nearest VA hospital or clinic in New Hampshire for more information on eligibility.
New Hampshire Drug And Alcohol Treatment Programs Covered By Tricare
Tricare is a federal health insurance program designed for active-duty military members, their families and dependents, eligible veterans, and retirees.
Tricare covers addiction treatment services such as MAT, detox, IOP, inpatient services, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and more.
Treatments that Tricare may not cover include aversion therapy, unproven treatments, and holistic treatments that are not deemed medically necessary.
New Hampshire Veterans Rehab FAQs
The following frequently asked questions may help you find a veterans rehab program in New Hampshire that fits your needs.
âť“ Does The VA Offer Inpatient Rehab?
✔️ Yes, you can receive residential addiction treatment through the VA. To learn what qualifications you may have to meet, reach out to the VA through their website.
âť“ Is Substance Abuse Treatment Free Through Tricare?
✔️ Tricare may offer free services depending on the plan. To check which Tricare plan you may be eligible for, visit the Tricare website or call a representative to learn more.
❓ What If I Don’t Qualify For VA Healthcare Or Tricare?
✔️ There are a number of resources available for veterans in need of rehab services, including Medicaid insurance, state-run grants for substance abuse treatment, and more.
You can also find rehab centers for veterans that offer payment plans, payment assistance, and other payment options to help you reach lasting recovery.
Find Substance Use Disorder Treatment For Veterans In New Hampshire
Call our helpline today for more information on treatment programs for veterans in New Hampshire. Our team will help you find a treatment provider that fits your unique needs.
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- Benefits.gov — Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant
https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/871 - NH.gov — New Hampshire Veterans Home
https://www.nh.gov/veterans/ - U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs — Manchester VA Medical Center
https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/facility.asp?id=81