Substance misuse including alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit substances is a common coping mechanism among veterans. Research shows veterans are more likely than the general population to misuse alcohol, with strong links between trauma exposure and heavy drinking.

Gambling addiction is also a significant concern. Research from the Forces in Mind Trust and the University of Liverpool highlights that UK veterans are at greater risk of problem gambling than civilians, often driven by isolation, boredom, or maladaptive coping strategies.

These behaviours often mask deeper mental health issues and can exacerbate financial instability, relationship breakdowns, and further isolation.

Addiction and Substance Misuse Among UK Veterans

Substance misuse, including alcohol and drug addiction, is a significant concern among UK veterans. It is often closely linked to the psychological and social challenges faced during and after military service. Veterans may turn to substances as a way to cope with stress, trauma, or mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

Prevalence and Risk Factors

Research indicates that veterans are at higher risk of developing substance misuse problems compared to the general population. Contributing factors include:

• Coping with Trauma: Many veterans use alcohol or drugs to self-medicate symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety.
• Military Culture: Alcohol consumption has historically been a normalised part of military life, sometimes encouraging heavy drinking.
• Transition Stress: The loss of military structure and identity—combined with isolation, housing issues, or unemployment—can increase vulnerability.
• Physical Pain and Injury: Veterans may misuse prescription painkillers to manage chronic pain from service-related injuries.
• Mental Health Stigma: Fear of judgment or negative consequences may discourage veterans from seeking help, leading to unaddressed issues and substance misuse.

Common Substances Misused

• Alcohol: The most commonly misused substance among veterans, often leading to dependency, health complications, and social difficulties.
• Prescription Medications: Opioids and benzodiazepines may be misused to manage pain, anxiety, or sleep disturbances.
• Illicit Drugs: Some veterans use substances such as cannabis, cocaine, or other illicit drugs as a form of escape or self-medication.

Impact of Substance Misuse

Substance misuse often worsens existing mental health conditions and can seriously impair a veteran’s ability to reintegrate into civilian life. The consequences may include:

• Relationship breakdowns and increased isolation
• Employment difficulties or job loss
• Health complications and higher risk of accidents
• Legal problems, including arrest or imprisonment
• Elevated risk of self-harm or suicide.

Support and Treatment in the UK

Tackling addiction in veterans requires tailored, veteran-sensitive care. Effective support includes:

• NHS Substance Misuse Services: These offer assessment, detoxification, counselling, and rehabilitation, with options tailored to veterans where possible.
• Veteran-Specific Addiction Services: Charities such as Combat Stress and Addaction (now part of We Are With You) provide programmes designed for veterans dealing with addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions.
• Psychological Therapies: Evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and trauma-informed care are essential for addressing both addiction and underlying psychological issues.
• Peer Support: Veteran peer groups offer a sense of community, reduce stigma, and encourage recovery through shared experiences.
• Holistic Approaches: Addressing physical health, housing, employment, and social connection improves long-term recovery outcomes.

Importance of Early Intervention and Integrated Care

Early identification of substance misuse and integrated treatment that addresses both addiction and mental health is critical to recovery. Reducing stigma and encouraging veterans to seek support without fear of judgment remain essential goals across UK services.

Contact Veterans Welfare Group today to speak with an advisor—whether you’re looking for support on your recovery journey or taking the first step toward getting professional help.