Read more: Local, Health, Military, Veteran, Intoxication Assault, Military, Substance Abuse, Psychologist, Dr. Jennifer Wood, Alcohol Abuse, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Rio Grande Valley, Texas
A local combat veteran arrested for intoxication assault prompted Action 4 News to research the connection between military service and substance abuse.
According to clinical psychologist Dr. Jennifer Wood, substance abuse is a problem that affects veterans of every war and every generation.
Wood treats local veterans for substance abuse problems.
She said alcohol abuse among veterans can increase when returning from war, especially in the face of job hunting, supporting a family or trying to go back to school.
Wood also said drug and alcohol abuse can stem from bigger issues like post traumatic stress disorder.
”The symptoms of that condition result in a lot of anxiety or difficulty sleeping,” said Wood, “and sometimes alcohol use can be an attempt to cope with those symptoms or to medicate from those symptoms."
For veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, Wood said the local veterans clinics are offering special substance abuse programs ranging from individual and group counseling, to help with detox medication or even hospitalization.
For veterans seeking help in the Harlingen area, call 956-366-4500.
For veterans seeking help in the McAllen area, call 956-618-7100.
Wood said veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan are financially covered for up to five years after returning from war for any condition resulting from deployment.
