It is a fact that veterans are more likely than members of the general population to have problems with substance use. Although this often involves the use of alcohol and illicit drugs, there has also been a surge in the use and abuse of prescription medication. Because these types of drugs can be legally prescribed by medical professionals, many veterans do not know that they pose the same risk that illegal drugs do. Prescription medication that is not taken as prescribed can lead to a range of adverse health outcomes, including mood, personality, and behavioral problems as well as problems with physical health.
If you or the veteran in your life is struggling with addiction, it can be difficult to know where to begin. This fact is especially true in the midst of a global health crisis. Thankfully, New Bridge Foundation® is here to help. We have designed our comprehensive telehealth program to provide veterans and active-duty personnel with access to the highest quality addiction treatment while remaining safely at home, at the base, or in the location of their choice.
The Importance of Telehealth for Veterans and Active-Duty Military Members
Telehealth services are important for both active-duty members of the military and veterans, even in the best of times. They are, however, critical during a pandemic. The following are just a few of the reasons why.
- Telehealth gives individuals access to quality care when they do not have access to or require in-person addiction treatment. This can be particularly important for veterans who do not live in urban centers or for active-duty personnel with limited schedules due to work restrictions.
- Telehealth allows veterans and military members to build strong social support networks with other military members or with those outside of their branch of service. These relationships can be an important factor when it comes to avoiding relapse down the road.
- Telehealth programs allow veterans and military members to receive outpatient services from the location of their choice within the state of California, with programming available in the morning, afternoon, or evening. This is important both in terms of convenience and adhering to social distancing recommendations.
Telehealth at New Bridge Foundation®: What to Expect
A telehealth visit is, in many ways, very much like an in-person visit. Your addiction specialist will:
- Take a full medical history, which will include questions about your substance use, your family history, and any mental health issues that may be underpinning or fueling your substance use.
- With your input, design a treatment plan that is customized to your individual needs and recovery goals.
- Start you on this plan, which will include a combination of individual and group therapy sessions, relapse prevention techniques as well as addressing issues that are specific to veterans and active-duty military personnel.
New Bridge Foundation® has been working with veterans, active-duty personnel as well as dependents and retirees for many years. We understand the unique challenges and stressors that go along with serving our country either directly or as a member of a military family. Telehealth services have been proven to be very effective in treating substance use disorders that can benefit you or the military person in your life.
Reach Out to New Bridge Foundation® Today
If you or someone you care about is a veteran or an active-duty military member who is struggling with substance use, the innovative addiction treatment programs at New Bridge Foundation® can help. Learn more by reaching out to our team online today or call us at 866.772.8491.
