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Drug Rehab for Veterans: What to Expect

Kansas is proud to support our military. As a state, nearly 1 in 10 of our residents is a veteran — a higher concentration than the national average of 6.6%. Sadly, that community faces significant challenges that civilians can’t even comprehend. Struggling from depression, anxiety, or PTSD, many vets turn to substance abuse in an attempt to numb the pain, causing terrible addiction that it is hard to escape. However, no matter how hopeless things may seem, there is a solution. Recovery from addiction is possible for veterans with the help of a professional veterans addiction treatment program. If you are considering veterans drug rehab for yourself or a loved one, this is what you can expect.

Does the VA Cover Drug Rehab? 

Every veteran’s VA benefits are different, but the VA does cover treatment for substance use disorder. Veterans in need of help should see their primary care provider in order to receive a screening. From there, the doctor can diagnose the problem and provide a referral for treatment. In Kansas, for example, the Robert Dole VA Medical Center has a Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Center for those who qualify. 

But, what if the VA won’t cover the intensive residential treatment that you need? Or, what if there is no bed available? And what if you would prefer something more comfortable than a military hospital? Private residential addiction treatment for veterans could be an option.

What Happens in Rehab for Vets?

Private drug rehab for veterans treats the addiction as well as any underlying issues causing it. Dual-diagnosis treatment can identify and heal a variety of mental health problems, such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and more. Innovative techniques like EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) or CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) have been shown to be incredibly effective for dealing with trauma and suicidal ideation, for example. 

At the same time, supplemental activities like group therapy with other veterans, art therapy, and leisure time allow you the space to heal. Overall, residential addiction treatment for veterans gives you the 24/7 support you need to begin a new life, free from the triggers and stresses that you normally face. Your meals, room and board will be included. It’s the best way to begin the path out of addiction.

At the same time, your clinical team will work with you to plan for aftercare. PHP or IOP, or a local sober living could be helpful in supporting your early recovery outside of treatment. Whatever your needs and goals are, our team will work with you to reach them.

Paying for Drug Rehab for Veterans

Some private facilities like Holland Pathways can work with the VA to help you get the residential addiction treatment for veterans that you need. Supplemental insurance like TRICARE, TriWest, or Humana Military also can be used to help pay for drug rehab. Each person’s financial situation is unique, though. The best way to get a clear picture of what you’ll need to pay is to call our team of experts. They’ll verify your insurance benefits and use their experience helping veterans to guide you to the most affordable and effective solution for you — even if it isn’t at Holland Pathways.

Get Help for an Addicted Veteran

When you or your loved one is ready to get help, we’ll be ready to walk that path with you. Veterans have already given us all so much; it’s our mission to help them enjoy the freedom that they fought for. Contact our caring team today.