Find Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment as a Military Veteran

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Military veterans face unique challenges when seeking addiction treatment, but you aren’t alone—and you don’t have to navigate recovery by yourself. From specialized VA programs to community-based options, here’s how to find the support you deserve:

1. Reach Out to Your Local VA Facility

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a full range of substance use disorder (SUD) services—from detox and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to residential and outpatient programs.

2. Explore the VA Community Care Network (CCN)

If accessing care through the VA is difficult, the VA CCN allows you to receive addiction treatment from approved providers outside the VA. Many facilities, including Boca Recovery Center, partner with VA to offer veteran-focused care.

3. Understand the MISSION Act

The MISSION Act (replacing the Veterans Choice Program in 2019) lets you get community care if the nearest VA is far away or has long wait times—without needing private insurance. This includes addiction treatment, if you qualify.

4. Contact Local Veteran Support Organizations

Veteran-focused nonprofits offer peer support, advocacy, and referral services for addiction treatment:

  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): assist with VA claims, benefits, and local support en.wikipedia.org
  • American Legion, Disabled American Veterans (DAV): offer similar referral and community support services
  • For inspirational stories and recovery guides, check the VFW’s blog: e.g., one veteran built her own nonprofit after recovery vfw.org

5. Research Specialized Addiction Treatment Facilities

Some rehab centers specialize in serving veterans, addressing trauma, PTSD, and military-related issues.

  • American Addiction Centers (AAC) operates veteran-specific inpatient programs (often VA CCN–approved): see “Veteran Program” details americanaddictioncenters.org

6. Inquire About Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT uses medications—like buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone—combined with counseling. These are routinely offered at VA facilities and many community providers.

7. Look into Outpatient Treatment Options

Outpatient programs allow you to live at home, maintain a routine, and work or study while receiving care. VA clinics and community programs often offer intensive outpatient therapy and peer groups.

8. Consider Aftercare & Sober Living

Long-term recovery often includes aftercare services like ongoing counseling, sober living, or peer-based groups. Many VA and veteran-specific programs support this transition. Florida Springs in Panama City has a brand new facility for those looking for sober living facilities in the Florida Panhandle.

9. Reach Out to Additional Veteran-Focused Resources

Beyond the VA and major nonprofits, there are other networks worth exploring:

  • Warrior Care Network supports PTSD and related substance issues at no cost
  • Cohen Veterans Network provides mental health services to veterans and families

By Tim Cannon