Licensed and Certified by the California Department of Health Care Services, License #330053AP
Copyright © 2024 California Behavioral Health · 37066 Bankside Drive, Cathedral City, CA 92234 · Privacy Policy
Navigating addiction recovery while dealing with chronic pain as a veteran isn’t a simple feat; however, getting the care you deserve is possible. The process is akin to a balancing act between getting the pain management you need and staying sober. This can be accomplished at a veterans rehab facility.
Being able to understand the connection between your addiction and chronic pain is the key to unlocking your highest quality of life. As a veteran, you will frequently encounter obstacles resulting from your service, which can increase your chances of struggling with chronic pain and substance use disorders (SUDs). An inpatient rehab facility can help you manage your chronic pain and battle your addiction simultaneously.
Service-related injuries can affect the long-term health of veterans, often leading to chronic pain conditions that persist long after your service has ended. Many veterans experience frequent physical injuries during their military service, including back pain, joint injuries, and various musculoskeletal issues, mainly due to the demanding physical environment they face.
Additionally, combat-related trauma can exacerbate these conditions, as the physiological effects of such experiences can increase your pain over time. This is reflected in a 2016 analysis of the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) by the lead epidemiologist at the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) at the National Institutes of Health, which stated that American veterans experience a higher incidence of pain and more severe pain than nonveterans, with a significant number indicating that chronic pain is connected to time in service. The interplay of these factors underscores the need for comprehensive support and treatment options.
There are several reasons why chronic pain increases your addiction risk as a veteran. First, you can develop an over-reliance on prescription opioids for pain management. In 2022, the U.S. Association for the Study of Pain conducted a risk-screening study about opioid and alcohol misuse in veterans suffering from chronic pain. The results showed that out of the 211 veterans assessed, 40 percent were misusing opioids, 5 percent were misusing alcohol, and 23 percent were misusing both. Even though opioids are an effective method of treatment for acute pain management, using them can lead to dependence.
According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, there is also a connection between addiction and untreated mental health conditions, such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. These co-occurring disorders usually go together with chronic pain, increasing the chance of self-medication. Furthermore, the National Library of Medicine shared that dealing with chronic pain can “experience substantial emotional and functional limitations, including a heightened risk for social isolation.”
Managing addiction and pain simultaneously is not an easy feat for you or your healthcare provider, particularly if you’re part of the veteran community. Veterans tend to be at a higher risk of addiction. As a result of service-related injuries and physical trauma, many veterans deal with chronic pain. Also, since depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and anxiety are common among veterans, the likelihood of looking to pain medication for relief is increased. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, most veterans have “unique issues related to pain management.”
The key is to find a balance between successfully managing your pain and staying on track with your addiction recovery. That means that your providers have to tread cautiously, ensuring that you are getting the pain relief you need without exacerbating existing Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). Additionally, many veterans face restricted access to comprehensive treatment options that address both issues simultaneously, highlighting the urgent need for integrated approaches in healthcare. Another challenge that comes with addiction and pain management care is the stigma associated with it. The National Library of Medicine explains, “The hypermasculine military culture often places importance and value on self-reliance…Additionally, they may feel the need to help protect family or friends by not talking about their symptoms or struggles.”
If you are a veteran, you may experience several indicators that you need help with addiction and pain management. It’s also possible that your chronic pain is tied to your mental health. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it could be helpful to seek admission to a drug and alcohol treatment center.
Physical and emotional warning signs can manifest in various ways, indicating potential issues that must be addressed. One significant sign is gaining tolerance to pain medications or substances, which can lead you to increase your dosages in pursuit of relief, often resulting in dependency.
Military OneSource, which supports military personnel and their families, shared that there are several physical and emotional red flags to watch out for, including decreased energy, unexplained falls or injuries, loss of appetite, mood swings, irritability, agitation, trouble concentrating, memory loss, lack of personal hygiene, and blackouts. Feelings of ongoing anxiety, depression, or isolation can further complicate the emotional landscape, making it challenging to seek help or support.
Additionally, a concerning increase in pain symptoms despite higher medication use may signal that the body is no longer effectively responding to treatment. This raises alarms about the effectiveness of the current pain management approach and the need for reevaluation. You may be experiencing “opioid-induced hyperalgesia.” The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) “determined that a new warning is needed about opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH), which is when an opioid that is prescribed and taken for pain relief causes an increase in pain (called hyperalgesia) or an increased sensitivity to pain (called allodynia). Although OIH can occur at any opioid dosage, it may occur more often with higher doses and longer-term use.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are many behavioral signs of addiction. You will feel like you must use the drug regularly, have obsessive thoughts about the drug, and have financial issues. One of the most common behavioral indicators is the tendency to conceal or misrepresent the extent of your substance use, which may involve lying about consumption levels or hiding substances to keep it a secret from your loved ones.
Additionally, you may neglect your daily responsibilities, such as work, school, or family obligations. The Mayo Clinic also detailed that you may engage in risky activities, such as driving while impaired, stealing, and lying.
Chronic pain can be a sign of a deeper issue. If you experience pain flare-ups triggered by stress or emotional difficulties, you may find that your pain is not just physical but intertwined with your mental health. The American Psychiatric Association explains that chronic pain and mental health disorders frequently occur concurrently; in fact, research indicates that “chronic pain and mental health problems can contribute to and exacerbate the other.” According to Harvard Medical School, “People suffering from depression, for example, tend to experience more severe and long-lasting pain than other people.”
Relying solely on medications can lead to a cycle of dependency without addressing the root causes, making it essential to explore alternative treatment options such as therapy, mindfulness, or physical rehabilitation.
The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs stated, “Unrelieved and persistent chronic pain can contribute to depression, anxiety, poor sleep patterns, decreased quality of life, and substance use disorders. It is also a risk factor for suicide.” This means that your chronic pain can trigger a deep sense of hopelessness, which can exacerbate the pain experience, creating a barrier to your recovery. Understanding the emotional and psychological elements of your chronic pain is crucial for your recovery.
There are many effective treatment options available for veterans if you’re seeking recovery and pain management. These include non-opioid pain management strategies, integrated treatment programs for veterans, and evidence-based therapies for dual recovery, such as medical detoxification.
The Turkish Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation shared results showing that physical therapy and exercise are crucial in improving mobility and reducing pain. You can regain strength and flexibility through exercise plans for your specific pain management needs by engaging in particular movements and low back stretches, glute stretches, and neck stretches, such as balance training, aerobic exercise, range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises like a dead bug, and clamshells exercises, which are specifically for your butt and lower back. Moving your body and following your exercise plan will enhance your quality of life.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, incorporating mind-body techniques such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation can further help manage pain and stress. These practices promote relaxation and mindfulness, assisting individuals in developing coping strategies that foster physical and mental well-being. Even the National Cancer Institute agreed that integrative medicine, a medical approach combining conventional over-the-counter medications with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, like acupuncture, has been scientifically proven effective and safe.
Many integrated treatment programs help veterans who are struggling with addiction and chronic pain. The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) offers several evidence-based treatments for substance use disorders (SUDs), including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, contingency management, and motivational enhancement therapy (MET). These should be available at your local VA medical center. Medications are also accessible to help decrease cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and reduce the chance of relapse. These services play a crucial role in combining addiction recovery efforts with effective pain management strategies.
Additionally, dual-diagnosis treatment is essential, as it simultaneously targets chronic pain and addiction challenges, allowing for a more effective treatment approach. VA medical centers further enhance these efforts by employing holistic recovery methods explicitly tailored for veterans. San Francisco VA prides itself on offering integrated health clinical services by “incorporating complementary and integrative health (CIH) services alongside conventional care.” They refer to this as their “Whole Health” approach. The clinical services available to veterans include acupuncture, chiropractic care, and mindfulness activities.
To supplement VA-integrated treatment programs and other services, veterans can seek out community-based support groups, vocational rehabilitation programs, peer mentoring, trauma-informed therapy, and holistic wellness practices, such as yoga and mental health support.
There are also several evidence-based therapies for dual recovery. cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) will assist in addressing your addiction triggers and reshape your perception of pain. Another method, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), employs FDA-approved medications, including opioids like buprenorphine and methadone, to help you manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. There are also trauma-focused therapies, such as EMDR, that will combat your underlying PTSD and other related conditions.
Substance abuse treatment centers realize the significance of family participation in the healing process. These recovery facilities will support you throughout the process, including verifying your insurance before beginning treatment.
Supporting veterans in managing pain while minimizing the risk of addiction is a multifaceted approach that emphasizes alternative therapies and open communication. One effective strategy is to assist veterans in exploring non-opioid pain relief methods, such as physical therapy, acupuncture, mindfulness meditation, and yoga.
VA investigators are conducting studies to find ways to decrease behavioral and medical issues related to opioid abuse with pain management. The VA is collaborating with the Center for Neuroscience and Regeneration Research, along with the Yale School of Medicine, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the United Spinal Association, to study how “molecular and cell-based discoveries targeting sodium channels that might lead to non-opioid analgesic development.” By advocating for these alternatives to be included in your care plans, we can help you find relief without the dangers associated with opioid use.
It is essential to distinguish between genuine pain management needs and potential addictive behaviors. Drug-seeking behaviors include asking for drugs by name, requesting a dose increase, asking for brand names, citing allergies to alternative medicines, doctor shopping, and anger when questioned about pain symptoms. Finally, promoting open discussions about recovery objectives fosters a safe environment where you can share your challenges and goals. Encouraging transparency with healthcare providers and adherence to prescribed treatment plans can significantly enhance your road toward recovery and overall well-being.
Participating in family counseling or educational programs can provide emotional support during recovery. These programs give families a greater understanding and provide communication and conflict-resolution tools. The goal is to create a supportive home environment, beginning with building a support network.
Exercising patience and establishing realistic expectations is also crucial, as recovery is not linear. You will have to overcome obstacles and have many ups and downs. Remember to celebrate the small achievements along the way.
Teaching your children about recovery can be tough, but it’s important to help them understand complex emotions and situations. Start by simplifying the connection between pain and addiction; use age-appropriate language to explain that sometimes, pain can lead people to rely on medications, and this reliance can become an issue. It is crucial to create a safe space for your children to share their feelings anytime they need.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation explains that the 7C’s are an excellent way for your kids to remember the most essential pieces of your conversation: “I didn’t cause it. I can’t cure it. I can’t control it. I can care for myself by communicating my feelings, making healthy choices, and celebrating myself.”
Encouraging open communication allows them to express their thoughts and emotions freely. Additionally, exploring family-friendly resources like Alateen can provide extra support. These programs are tailored for children affected by a loved one’s addiction or recovery, offering guidance and a sense of community that can be incredibly beneficial for young family members. Alateen supports youth who live with or have been affected by alcohol. Sesame Street also has resources for children dealing with a parent’s addiction, helping them know that they are not alone.
Long-term strategies for managing chronic pain and recovery as a veteran include creating healthy routines, preventing relapse while controlling pain, and exploring new pain management innovations. TriWest Healthcare Alliance collaborates closely with the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) to guarantee that veterans like you can access timely and efficient healthcare services, like the ones below, through an extensive network of providers.
Establishing healthy routines is essential for maintaining both physical and mental well-being. Creating a daily schedule is foundational; it helps design a structured routine that balances work, self-care, and leisure activities. This schedule should include dedicated times for therapeutic practices, relaxation, and sufficient rest, ensuring that you prioritize your overall health. The Mayo Clinic stresses the importance of coping strategies, like having a healthy routine. This includes exercising, participating in activities that are meaningful to you to produce endorphins, practicing good sleep habits, and staying connected to your support system.
Additionally, setting goals plays a crucial role in personal development. By dividing long-term personal and professional aspirations into smaller, manageable steps, you can create achievable milestones that boost your confidence and motivate you to keep moving forward. Together, these elements can help foster a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. A short-term goal might be to complete detox safely. A long-term goal might be to attend all therapy sessions, achieve financial stability, or re-establish family connections. It is beneficial for veterans to set goals for recovery, providing a roadmap of commitment to sobriety. The VA offers Measurement-Based Care (MBC), which “provides veterans the opportunity to take an active role in their mental health care.” In MBC, you will “set recovery goals, develop treatment plans, establish benchmarks, and monitor progress.”
First, identifying your triggers is essential. Triggers can cause you to relapse. Some of the most common triggers include tempting situations to return to drug use, peer pressure, unfortunate circumstances like professional or personal setbacks, housing troubles or social pressures, emotional or mental health issues, and physical health issues.
Maintaining a journal can be a tool for documenting situations or activities that exacerbate pain. You can make informed decisions about avoiding or modifying these triggers by recognizing them.
Engaging with friends, family, or support groups can provide the emotional backing and accountability needed to stay on track. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can offer valuable insights and motivation. Support groups like the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), Team Red, White & Blue, and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) can help you connect with other veterans. Their methodologies mainly focus on peer support and creating a safe space for discussion and sharing personal experiences.
It is also important to schedule regular medical follow-ups so your healthcare provider can monitor your progress. Consistent communication with healthcare professionals allows for timely adjustments to your treatment plan.
It never hurts to stay current in the ever-evolving field of medicine. New therapies for chronic pain are always on the horizon, and they could alter your treatment plan options. Consulting pain management specialists is another crucial step. These professionals can provide tailored guidance and introduce you to the latest treatments for your condition.
According to Pain and Spine Specialists, a pain management specialist will begin by reviewing your medical history, followed by a physical exam. Next, the pain specialist will construct a treatment plan to manage your pain without compromising your overall health. You will have regular appointments with the pain specialist for quality care and chronic pain management.
Additionally, participating in research, such as clinical trials or studies relevant to veterans, can offer you early access to innovative therapies while contributing to your advancement of medical knowledge. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), the VA has “ranked as one of the nation’s leaders in health research.” The VA’s strategic priorities include increasing veterans’ access to high-quality clinical trials, increasing the real-world impact of VA research, putting VA data to work for veterans, actively promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and building community through VA research.
At California Behavioral Health, our substance abuse addiction treatment center provides several rehabilitation options for veterans. This includes dual diagnosis treatment if you’re dealing with addiction and a co-occurring mental health disorder like depression, chronic pain, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
There are many resources for veterans who are attempting to navigate addiction recovery and chronic pain, including ones that are veteran-specific, ones geared towards family members and caregivers, and many national and support programs. These resources will provide the assistance you need to help you regain control of your life.
Here is a group of veteran-specific resources to help you gain easy access to pertinent recovery support services:
It is essential to recognize the significance of supporting families and caregivers. Below is a compilation of valuable resources that provide guidance, counseling, and assistance tailored to diverse needs.
Here are various national and online programs that aid with mental health, addiction, and chronic pain management. These resources encompass hotlines, peer support groups, and educational materials designed to support individuals and families.
Licensed by the California Department of Health Care Services, License # 330053AP
Copyright © 2024 California Behavioral Health · 37066 Bankside Drive, Cathedral City, CA 92234 · Privacy Policy