Our Thoughts as We Honor Veterans Day 

This week, as we honor and celebrate Veteran’s Day, we invite everyone to reflect on the sacrifices American soldiers make both on the battlefield and at home when they return. Veterans hold a unique occupation in many ways, one of those being that the job increases the likelihood of developing various physical and mental health conditions. Namely, chronic pain and PTSD (and their related symptoms) affect veterans at a disproportionate rate, which in turn leads to elevated rates of alcohol and opioid use disorders. Reentering society after active duty is a challenge that those of us who have not served cannot fully understand. It can involve an abrupt loss of military community and a disconnection from friends and family who may not be able to relate to the experience. Consider the addition of substance misuse to this mix, perhaps as a result of chronic pain or psychological distress, and it is no wonder that many can feel isolated and stuck in the cycle of addiction. As the nation honors Veterans Day this week, we remind our readers to regard the occasion with respect from all angles. Addiction does not break for the holidays, so as we enjoy that privilege on Tuesday, we can remain mindful of all types of sacrifices that soldiers make.