Veteran Rehab: A Path to Healing and Recovery

Supporting Veterans in Their Transition to Civilian Life

Returning to civilian life after military service can be a challenging transition for many veterans. Due to the demanding nature of their duties, many have been exposed to traumatic experiences, leading to conditions such as PTSD and other mental health disorders. As a result, some veterans turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope. Unfortunately, this self-medication often leads to addiction, making veteran-focused rehabilitation programs essential for recovery.

How Design for Change Recovery Helps Veterans

At Design for Change Recovery, we recognize the unique challenges veterans face when struggling with substance use disorders. That’s why we offer a specialized treatment program tailored specifically to their needs. Our mission is to support veterans as they adjust to civilian life without relying on substances for relief.

Through a full continuum of care, our program empowers veterans to regain control of their lives using evidence-based therapies. We believe every veteran deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling, healthy life, and we are dedicated to making that possible.

Understanding Substance Use Among Veterans

Substance misuse is a significant concern among veterans, particularly when it comes to prescription medications. Many veterans receive painkillers for injuries sustained during service, increasing the risk of dependency and addiction. Statistics show that more than one in ten veterans struggle with substance use disorders (SUDs).

Key Statistics on Substance Use Among Veterans:

• Alcohol use disorder: 10.5% (males) | 4.8% (females)
• Drug use disorder: 4.8% (males) | 2.4% (females)
• Illicit drug use: 38.0% (males) | 29.0% (females)
• Prescription drug misuse: 18.0% (males) | 14.0% (females)

Despite the need for support, nearly 70% of veterans with SUDs do not receive the treatment they need. At Design for Change, we work with veterans, their insurance providers, Medicare, and the VA to make high-quality treatment accessible and affordable.

Addressing Dual-Diagnosis in Veterans

Veterans facing PTSD and depression are three to four times more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Research shows that around 60% of veterans with PTSD also struggle with substance dependence. This creates a vicious cycle where one condition fuels the other, making recovery even more challenging.

Our veterans rehab program is designed to address both substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders simultaneously. By targeting the root causes, we help veterans achieve long-term recovery and mental wellness.

Our evidence-based dual-diagnosis treatment includes:

• Detoxification
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
• Group and Individual Counseling
• Holistic Therapies
• Motivational Interviewing
• Trauma-Focused Therapy
• Mindfulness and Meditation
• Nutritional Education
• Family Therapy and Aftercare Services

These comprehensive approaches promote whole-person healing, improving the chances of sustained sobriety and mental well-being.

Preventing Veteran Suicides Through Rehab

Military service can take a severe toll on mental health, leading some veterans to turn to substances as a way to cope. Unfortunately, this can contribute to a higher risk of suicide. According to the VA Suicide Prevention Annual Report, approximately 6,146 veteran suicides occurred in 2020 alone.

At Design for Change, we aim to reduce these numbers by providing veterans with the support, skills, and coping mechanisms needed to manage mental health challenges without relying on substances. With proper treatment, many veterans regain confidence, motivation, and a sense of purpose, helping them reintegrate successfully into society.

Addiction Treatment for Active-Duty Service Members

Substance misuse is not limited to veterans—active-duty service members also face significant risks. The stress of deployment, combat exposure, and repeated tours can contribute to substance use. Unfortunately, many service members hesitate to seek help due to the fear of disciplinary action or stigma.

At Design for Change, we understand these challenges and offer confidential, professional care tailored to the unique needs of military personnel. Our goal is to help service members recover before their substance use leads to long-term consequences.

Insurance Coverage for Veterans Rehab Programs

Veterans have multiple options for covering the cost of rehab. The Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits program provides assistance for substance use and mental health treatment, while the Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that insurance plans include coverage for addiction treatment.

Design for Change partners with a variety of insurance providers, including:

• Aetna
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Carelon
• Cigna
• Kaiser
• Magellan
• Humana
• Beacon
• And more

For veterans with both private insurance and VA benefits, our team helps determine the best coverage options to minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

Comprehensive Veteran Rehab Services at Design for Change

We understand that transitioning back to civilian life can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, our specialized veterans rehab program is here to help.

Our facility in scenic Lancaster, CA, offers:

• A safe and comfortable environment
• Compassionate, expert staff
• Accredited, evidence-based treatment methods

As a JCAHO-accredited facility, Design for Change upholds the highest standards of care and safety. Our treatment programs are proven to be effective in addressing addiction and co-occurring disorders, ensuring that veterans receive the best possible support.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Veterans have already walked a difficult path in service to our country. Now, we want to help them overcome the struggles of addiction and reclaim their lives.

If you or a loved one is facing substance use challenges, contact us today by phone, email, or online to speak with one of our experienced treatment advisors. Together, we can build a future free from addiction and filled with hope.

Sources:

mentalhealth.va.gov/ – National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report

nida.nih.gov – Substance Use and Military Life DrugFacts

va.gov/ – Substance Use Treatment for Veterans