Alcoholism in Military Veterans: Stats, Causes & Effects

The stress of military service can lead to alcoholism in veterans, but treatment can help veterans cope with alcoholism and related trauma.

The stress of combat can take a toll on military veterans. Some may turn to substances, including alcohol, to cope. While alcohol may provide temporary relief, over time, alcohol misuse can lead to addiction. 

Military Culture and Alcohol Misuse

Alcohol misuse has long been recognized as a serious issue within military culture, influenced by a range of factors that include high-stress environments, periods of boredom, and longstanding traditions around camaraderie and group bonding. For many service members, alcohol can become a way to cope with the psychological strain of deployment and combat, as well as an outlet for celebrating milestones and fostering unit cohesion. However, this cultural acceptance of drinking often blurs the line between moderate use and problematic consumption.

Research indicates that binge drinking is more prevalent among military personnel than in the general population. According to some Department of Defense (DoD) surveys, around one-third of service members have reported binge drinking in the past month, with rates being particularly high among younger service members and in certain branches of service. Additionally, heavy drinking can escalate the risk of alcohol-related problems such as impaired judgment, aggression, and the development of alcohol use disorders.

The consequences of alcohol misuse in the military go beyond health risks and can contribute to disciplinary infractions, interpersonal violence, and diminished operational readiness. Studies suggest that alcohol-related behavioral issues—ranging from insubordination to DUI offenses—often appear in tandem with other risk factors, including mental health concerns like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression. In some cases, service members may turn to alcohol to self-medicate, exacerbating existing psychological or emotional difficulties and further entrenching a destructive cycle of misuse.

Military Veteran Alcoholism Statistics

When people talk about alcoholism in the military, they are referring to alcohol use disorders (AUDs) in veterans. An alcohol use disorder is the politically correct diagnostic term for alcohol addiction.

Military statistics show how common AUDs are in veteran populations. Consider the following data: 

• A nationally representative survey of over 3,000 veterans found that 42.2% had an AUD at some point, and 14.8% showed symptoms of an AUD within the previous year. 
• The same study found that being a younger male was associated with an increased risk of AUD in veterans. 
• Another recent study revealed that compared to non-deployed veterans, Gulf War veterans were 33% more likely to have an AUD, and Iraq/Afghanistan veterans were 36% more likely to have an AUD. 

Risk Factors for Alcohol Abuse in Veterans

Drinking in veterans can occur for many reasons. For instance, some veterans may drink to cope with depression or anxiety, while others may drink for social reasons or to conform. 

PTSD and Veteran Alcohol Misuse

There is a strong link between PTSD and alcohol misuse in veterans. Veterans with PTSD are more likely than those without PTSD to drink to cope with negative emotions. In addition, experiencing an increased number of traumatic events during one’s lifetime is associated with a higher risk of alcohol use disorder in veterans. Research with veterans has shown that 55–68% of veterans with PTSD have an AUD, which is generally higher than the rate of AUD among veterans without PTSD. 

Depression and Alcohol Misuse in Veterans

Veterans may also use alcohol to cope with feelings of depression. Research has determined that veterans may be motivated to drink to alleviate depression, especially if they have PTSD. 

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and Veteran Alcohol Misuse

Much of the research on MST has occurred with female veterans. One study that evaluated the experiences of female veterans found that those who reported alcohol consumption were more likely to have a history of MTS when compared to non-drinkers. The study also revealed that women with a history of MST may tend to use alcohol to cope with depression or to avoid uncomfortable emotions. 

Impact of Alcohol Addiction on Veterans

While alcohol consumption may serve as a coping mechanism for veterans, the reality is that it only provides a temporary form of relief. When alcohol becomes the primary coping mechanism, a veteran is at risk of alcohol addiction and the negative consequences that come with it. 

Homelessness

Alcohol misuse can lead to homelessness among veterans who cannot maintain a job or meet their financial obligations due to alcohol misuse. Research on veterans indicated that misusing alcohol increases the risk of experiencing six or more months of homelessness. Related behaviors like driving under the influence are also linked to homelessness. 

Self-Harm and Suicide 

Veterans addicted to alcohol are also at increased risk of self-harm and suicide. In fact, research indicates that veterans who experience an AUD are slightly over four times as likely to make a suicide attempt at some point during their lives. 

Strained Relationships

Continuing to drink despite relationship problems arising from alcohol misuse is one of the signs of an alcohol use disorder. Veterans who become addicted to alcohol may experience relationship conflict. This can include growing apart from friends and loved ones or arguing with a spouse or children about alcohol misuse. 

Does the VA Consider Alcoholism a Disability? 

Veterans injured or ill due to their military service or experiencing worsening health conditions while in the service can be eligible for disability benefits through the VA. To become eligible, you must show documentation of the disability and file a claim for disability compensation. Mental health conditions like PTSD, depression and anxiety may qualify a veteran to receive disability benefits. 

If you experience an alcohol use disorder with PTSD from your service, you may be eligible for benefits, but veterans aren’t generally eligible for disability benefits based on alcohol use alone. Contact the VA for more information. 

Alcohol Addiction Recovery for Military Veterans

If you’re looking for alcohol addiction treatment in Missouri, The Recovery Village Kansas City offers options for veterans. Our 80-bed facility in Raytown, Missouri, offers comfortable accommodations and a full range of treatment options, including medical detox, residential treatment, and aftercare. We also offer treatment for addictions and co-occurring mental health disorders, including PTSD. Contact one of our Recovery Advocates today to learn more or to get started with treatment. 

FAQs on Alcohol Misuse in Military Personnel Veterans

1. What factors contribute to alcohol misuse among military personnel and veterans?

Stress, trauma, military culture, easy access to alcohol, difficulties transitioning to civilian life, and mental health issues all contribute to alcohol misuse.

2. What are the signs of alcohol misuse in military members and veterans?

Look for behavioral changes, physical symptoms, declining job performance, increased tolerance, dependence signs, and engagement in risky behaviors.

3. How can military personnel and veterans seek help for alcohol misuse?

They can utilize VA programs, confidential counseling, support groups, medical treatments, family and peer support, and Employee Assistance Programs.

4. What are the impacts of alcohol misuse on military readiness and veterans’ well-being?

Alcohol misuse can decrease military effectiveness, lead to health and relationship problems, create employment and financial challenges, and result in legal issues.