Introduction
Substance addiction disorders are a serious problem that provides particular difficulties for the veteran and military population. It is a complicated problem that combines mental and physical health concerns and needs the care and attention of committed medical experts, particularly nurses. The significance of a comprehensive approach is underscored by the issue’s relevance to nursing practice. It is critical to talk about how it affects healthcare concerns and to make clear how nurses can help with this.
Substance addiction and reliance on drugs or alcohol are referred to as substance abuse disorders among veterans and military people. This impacts veterans, including those who participated in earlier conflicts, as well as present serving military members. Substance addiction problems may arise as a result of the particular pressures of military duty, including exposure to conflict, family separation, and reintegration into civilian life (Sirratt et al., 2012). Furthermore, prescription drugs for treating mental health conditions and pain management are frequently easier to get in these circumstances, which raises the risk of addiction.
History and Statistics
Substance misuse in the military has a historical background that is rooted in several wars and conflicts. Widespread drug usage and addiction among military troops developed into a significant issue during the Vietnam War (Sharbafchi & Heydari, 2017). Substance misuse in the military has continued to be a concern ever since. In 2019, 5.5% of active-duty military members reported excessive alcohol usage, and 11.1% reported using illegal drugs, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (Eddie et al., 2019). The startling numbers underscore how urgently this problem needs to be addressed. Addiction to substances can result in a number of unfavorable outcomes, such as loss of employment, homelessness, legal issues, and grave health issues (Eddie et al., 2019). Additionally, it has been linked to an increased suicide risk in veterans. These figures highlight the critical need for assistance and intervention for veterans and active duty members who are abusing drugs.
Significance to Health Issues
Veterans and active military people suffer grave effects from substance addiction disorders related to their physical and emotional well-being. Drug and alcohol abuse can exacerbate pre-existing medical issues and cause the emergence of new ones. Infectious and respiratory illnesses as well as mental health issues like anxiety and despair can result from the use of illegal drugs (Teeters et al., 2017). Furthermore, drug misuse and other mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), frequently coexist. Divorce or drug abuse as a means of self-medication for PTSD symptoms might exacerbate the condition (Sirratt et al., 2012). The correlation between drug addiction and mental health issues underscores the need to adopt a comprehensive strategy in the provision of care for veterans and military members.
The Role of Nurses
When it comes to treating substance addiction issues in veterans and active military people, nurses are essential. Their tasks are diverse and multifarious, and they are at the forefront of patient care. At routine health screenings, nurses can evaluate patients for indications of a drug addiction disease (Sharbafchi & Heydari, 2017). Formal screening methods are another tool they can use to find those who are at risk. Additionally, they may advise service members and veterans about the dangers of substance addiction and the services that are available for assistance and treatment.
Patients who are at risk or in the early stages of a drug addiction disorder might benefit from short interventions from nurses. Counseling and motivational interviewing are two possible approaches (Teeters et al., 2017). In cases when a patient’s drug addiction condition is severe, nurses may recommend additional assessment and care for the patient to mental health specialists or specialized treatment programs. Additionally, they can provide emotional support to service troops and veterans while they navigate the difficulties of recuperation (Sirratt et al., 2012). In addition to counseling and setting patients up with support groups, this help may involve listening. In some cases, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) may be part of the recovery plan (Teeters et al., 2017). Nurses can monitor and manage these medications, ensuring their safe and effective use.
Relevance to Nursing Practice
Nursing practice is significantly impacted by treating drug addiction problems in veterans and military members. This necessitates an evidence-based, patient-centered strategy that takes into account the particular requirements of this demographic. It is important for nurses to have an understanding of the difficulties faced by veterans and military members in order to deliver compassionate and impartial treatment (Eddie et al., 2019). Additionally, nurses may push for modifications to policies and more funding to help with drug misuse prevention and treatment in the armed forces.
Conclusion
Veterans’ and military personnel’s substance addiction problems are a serious issue with far-reaching effects on their health and well-being. The statistical patterns and historical background emphasize how urgently assistance and action are needed. The relevance of this issue to overall health, particularly mental health, emphasizes the value of a comprehensive approach to medical treatment. In these areas, nurses are vital in the fight against drug addiction disorders because they provide support, education, intervention, and evaluation. Their involvement is crucial to providing comprehensive care and improving treatment outcomes for drug-abusing veterans and active duty personnel.
Concluding, it is imperative that the medical community continue to be dedicated to treating drug addiction issues in veterans and active military people. In the battle against drug addiction, those who have made sacrifices for their nation require comprehensive and compassionate care. It is our common duty to make sure that military personnel and veterans get the attention and assistance they require to kick drug addiction and start fresh.
References
Eddie, D., Hoffman, L., Vilsaint, C., Abry, A., Bergman, B., Hoeppner, B. & Kelly, J. F. (2019). Lived experience in new models of care for substance use disorder: a systematic review of peer recovery support services and recovery coaching. Frontiers in Psychology, 10. Web.
Sharbafchi, M. R., & Heydari, M. (2017). Management of substance use disorder in military services: a comprehensive approach. Advanced Biomedical Research, 6. Web.
Sirratt, D., Ozanian, A., & Traenkner, B. (2012). Epidemiology and prevention of substance use disorders in the military. Military Medicine, 177, 21-28. Web.
Teeters, J. B., Lancaster, C. L., Brown, D. G., & Back, S. E. (2017). Substance use disorders in military veterans: prevalence and treatment challenges. Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation, 69-77. Web.