Military veterans have to deal with the stigma surrounding substance use disorder as well as expectations to be a leader which can make it more difficult to receive help. Military veterans have to deal with issues that result from their service like chronic pain, PTSD, and re-integration into civilian life which make substance abuse more prevalent amongst veteran populations. Among US veterans aged 18-25, the rate of past year methamphetamine use was 2.5% (vs. 0.8% among all 18- to 25-year olds). US veterans aged 26 and older report a significantly lower rate of past year meth use at 0.5% (vs. 0.8% of all Americans 26 or older)
It’s important for veterans and their loved ones to understand that recovery from meth abuse and addiction is possible. Understanding the signs of meth addiction, the addiction treatment process, and the resources available to veterans can help you start your journey to recovery.
What is Meth?
Methamphetamine, or meth, is a powerful stimulant that produces an immediate sensation of wakefulness and a feeling of increased energy and physical performance. Methamphetamine’s effects are felt quickly and the exact mechanisms for producing euphoria aren’t well understood. Meth rapidly increases dopamine levels, a chemical in the brain, by increasing dopamine release and blocking dopamine re-uptake.
Methamphetamine has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Meth can be found in powder or pill form. Crystal meth usually has the appearance of a shiny white or bluish glass. It can be smoked, snorted, ingested, on injected. According to the US Drug Enforcement Administration, meth can also be taken as a pill or be found in powder form that can be smoked, snorted, ingested or injected.
Why Do Veterans Abuse Meth?
Reintegrating into civilian life is a big adjustment for veterans. While there are clear stressors to being in service to the military, the lifestyle also fosters a tight-knit sense of community. It can be difficult for veterans to find the sense of community and comradery they had in the military in civilian life. Substance abuse is a significant issue among military personnel, both active duty and veterns. While the United States only has about 1 million active service members, there are over 19 million veterans living in the country, comprising about 10% of the total population.
Meth use can contribute to various issues affecting veteran populations, especially if it is present alongside a co-occurring mental health disorder like post-traumatic stress disorder. Substance use is often tied to an increased risk of suicide in veterans.
As of 2024, the homeless rate for US veterans is 10.2%, with nearly 70% of homeless veterans meeting the criteria for a substance use disorder diagnosis.
Side Effects of Meth Use
Short-term effects of methamphetamine use include:
Wakefulness and increased physical activity.
Decreased appetite.
Faster breathing.
Rapid and/or irregular heartbeat.
Increased blood pressure and body temperature.
Chronic or long-term methamphetamine use is associated with many negative health effects on both the brain and the body. These include:
Weight loss.
Dental problems (e.g., “meth mouth”).
Intense itching and skin lesions from sores and scratching.
Anxiety.
Confusion.
Memory loss.
Sleeping problems.
Violent behavior.
Paranoia.
Visual or auditory hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that seem real although they aren’t).
Increased risk of bloodborne, sexually transmitted infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis C.
Meth Rehab and Treatment Options
If you are a veteran or your loved one served in the military, there are many options for your treatment for methamphetamine rehabilitation. It’s important to remember that, as a veteran, you have access to a valuable resource. Honorably discharged Veterans, who qualify, will receive substance abuse treatment services at NO COST. Call Thornton and Associates Veteran Services to speak with one of our Addiction Specialists at (626) 482-3478 for a free, confidential consultation to verify if you qualify.