CAMP VALOR Matters

Why Does VLR Matter?

Veterans face significantly higher rates of mental health challenges compared to civilians, including substance use disorders, depression, social isolation, and suicide. More than 1 in 10 veterans are diagnosed with a substance use disorder, a rate slightly higher than that of the general population. This is particularly concerning as substance misuse is closely linked to increased suicide risk; veterans who misuse drugs or alcohol are more than twice as likely to die by suicide compared to those who do not. In fact, suicide rates among veterans are approximately 1.5 times higher than those of the general U.S. population, with female veterans facing even greater disparities. Factors contributing to these elevated risks include exposure to traumatic events during service, difficulties transitioning to civilian life, and a lack of social support networks. Addressing these issues is crucial, as comprehensive treatment and support can significantly reduce the prevalence of these challenges among veterans.   

Sources:

• American Addiction Centers. (n.d.). Suicide Among Veterans. Retrieved from https://americanaddictioncenters.org/veterans/suicide-among-veterans

• National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Substance Use and Military Life DrugFacts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/substance-use-military-life

• National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2023). Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Veterans. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10031829/