Substance use among veterans is a serious public health concern in the United States. Transitioning from military to civilian life can bring immense psychological strain, and many veterans struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain, anxiety, or depression, all of which increase the risk of drug or alcohol addiction.

This article explores the latest veteran substance abuse statistics, the underlying causes of addiction in military communities, and how AspenRidge Recovery provides specialized support for veterans and active-duty personnel throughout Colorado.

The Scope of Veteran Substance Abuse in the U.S.

According to recent data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), SAMHSA, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), substance use disorders (SUDs) affect a significant portion of the veteran population.

Key Veteran Substance Abuse Statistics:

• Approximately 1 in 10 veterans has been diagnosed with a substance use disorder.
• Over 20% of veterans with PTSD also have a co-occurring addiction.
• Veterans are more likely than non-veterans to experience chronic pain, leading to increased prescription opioid use and potential dependency.
• Among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, 27% report alcohol misuse, and 11% report illicit drug use in the past year.
• VA hospitalizations for opioid overdose have more than doubled in the last two decades.

These veteran substance abuse statistics highlight a growing need for integrated care, addressing not only substance use, but also trauma, chronic stress, and other mental health conditions.

Why Veterans Are Vulnerable to Addiction

Military service often exposes individuals to high-stress environments, physical injury, and traumatic experiences. While many service members return home and adjust successfully, others carry invisible wounds that can manifest in substance use as a form of self-medication.

Common Contributing Factors Include:

• PTSD and Combat Trauma: Veterans with PTSD are significantly more likely to develop an addiction.
• Chronic Pain and Prescription Drug Use: Long-term pain management often involves opioids, which carry risk of misuse.
• Social Isolation: Veterans may feel disconnected after leaving service, increasing the risk of depression and substance use.
• Barriers to Mental Health Support: Stigma and lack of access can prevent veterans from seeking help.

Substance Use Trends Among Veteran Populations

Different branches of the military and different service eras show varying patterns of substance use. Based on compiled veteran substance abuse statistics, here’s what we know:

• Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance among veterans.
• Opioid addiction is rising, particularly among veterans with service-connected injuries.
• Methamphetamine and cocaine use are increasing, especially in vulnerable or unhoused populations.
• Nearly 50% of veteran addiction cases include co-occurring mental health disorders.

Veteran Addiction in Colorado

Colorado is home to more than 400,000 military veterans, and like in many other states, the need for accessible, veteran-focused treatment is growing. Cities like Colorado Springs, Lakewood, and Fort Collins see increasing numbers of veterans seeking care for both mental health and substance use.

AspenRidge Recovery is proud to support Colorado’s military community with specialized programs for veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families.

How AspenRidge Recovery Helps Veterans Heal

Understanding the challenges that come with military service is essential to effective treatment. That’s why AspenRidge offers programs designed to address both the clinical and emotional needs of veterans with substance use disorders.

Our Military-Focused Addiction Services Include:

1. Dual Diagnosis Treatment

We offer integrated care for both addiction and co-occurring conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

2. Trauma-Informed Care

Our clinicians use evidence-based approaches like CBT, DBT, and EMDR to address trauma in a supportive setting.

3. Discreet, Flexible Scheduling

We offer hybrid outpatient programs with virtual options for privacy and accessibility.

4. Medicaid & TRICARE Acceptance

We work with Colorado Medicaid and TRICARE to ensure veterans can access affordable care.

5. Veteran-Informed Clinical Team

Our staff includes professionals with military experience or connections, offering compassionate and culturally competent care.

Our Programs for Veterans

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

• 30+ hours of treatment per week
• Group and individual therapy, psychiatric care, and medication management
• Lasts approximately 4 weeks

5-Day Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

• 15 hours of group therapy per week (3 hours/day, 5 days/week)
• Weekly one-on-one therapy sessions
• Great for individuals balancing work or school

3-Day Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

• 9 hours of group therapy per week (3 sessions/week)
• Biweekly individual counseling
• Designed for step-down care or moderate substance use

Virtual Outpatient Program

• Full access to therapy and psychiatric care via a secure platform
• Ideal for remote areas or those seeking privacy and flexibility

Beyond the Statistics: Real Support for Colorado Veterans

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the numbers. But behind every data point is a person- a veteran, a parent, a friend, who deserves the chance to heal. The latest veteran substance abuse statistics may seem alarming, but with the proper care and community, long-term recovery is not only possible, it’s happening every day at AspenRidge.

We understand the weight of service. We honor it with dignity, compassion, and a commitment to helping veterans reclaim their lives.

Start the Healing Journey Today

If you or a loved one is a veteran struggling with addiction, don’t wait. AspenRidge Recovery is here to support you with comprehensive, veteran-informed care that respects your service and prioritizes your future.

• Call us now at (855) 281-5588
• Verify Your Insurance
• Locations in Denver, Lakewood, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, and Virtual Care statewide