Substance abuse is often associated with a great deal of stigma. Veterans with substance use problems often experience additional stigmas, due to the extra pressures from within and outside the military. Unfortunately we live in a society that can view physical and mental health issues as weakness, and addiction is one of the most misunderstood diseases of our time. When veterans with substance use problems are stigmatized and rejected by family, frends, and peers, it only contributes to the vicious cycle.
Military Culture
- In the military culture, independence and strength are core values. This often means that service members, and veterans, feel they need to handle their problems completely on their own, through determination and sheer grit.
- When problems with mental health or SUDs arise, which are very difficult to manage on one’s own, the veteran will often feel ashamed and hopeless, especially since he/she is unable to “tough it out”. They do not want to be perceived as weak.
- The military’s focus on toughness, strength, and perseverance reinforce the SUD and mental health stigmas.
- Because of the military culture and the stigma of seeking help, veterans often do not seek help. They do not want to risk being judged, or viewed as weak or broken.
