For many Veterans and First Responders, the things that they experience while in the service have a profound impact on their lives after they become civilians once again. From deployments to combat, to military sexual trauma, there are many things that shape a Veteran’s thoughts and actions in ways that civilians just can’t understand. These experiences are a big part of why Veterans and First Responders are more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol than civilians. Many Veterans and First Responders also suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of their experiences as well. This makes Veterans and First Responders nearly twice as likely to develop a substance abuse problem. In addition, therapy specifically for Veterans and First Responders is not always accessible.
At Sunrise Rehabilitation and Recovery, we understand just how different life as a Veteran or First Responder can be, and how difficult it is to deal with service-related trauma. That is why we have designed specialized therapy for Veterans programs. They are aimed at helping Veterans and First Responders process trauma, overcome addiction, and learn how to live a happy and healthy life outside of the service.
What Does Therapy for Veterans and First Responders Help With?
When designing our therapy for Veterans and First Responders programs, we knew just how important it was to ensure that they were built for Veterans and First Responders by Veterans and First Responders. People who have served in the military and emergency services often experience things that civilians never do. This is what makes their mental healthcare needs unique. The relationship between trauma and addiction is very well documented, and makes specially-tailored therapy so important.
Our therapy for Veterans and First Responders helps you to address your underlying trauma in a safe and understanding environment. It is in this environment of non-judgment and empathetic understanding that you can begin to learn how your experience has shaped the way that you act and feel, as well as how it influences your behavior. From there, you can learn ways to avoid mental health or substance abuse triggers; how to move on from your trauma, and how to replace negative habits with positive ones. All of these effects combine to make it easier for you to live a happier and healthier life, free from serious mental health symptoms and addiction.
The Different Types of Therapy for Veterans and First Responders
When it comes to Veterans and First Responders, no two are exactly alike, or have had exactly the same experiences. That is why we offer a range of therapy for Veterans options. What works for someone else may not work for you. So, our team of mental health specialists will work closely with you to find which program will be most effective. Currently, Sunrise Rehabilitation and Recovery offers the following therapy options:
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy allows Veterans and First Responders to work one-on-one with a therapist or counselor without the added pressure of having to talk about sensitive personal topics around other people. This means that you can better focus on discussing your trauma experiences. It also allows you to see the ways that it has affected your actions and emotions.
There are likely effects that you aren’t aware of, that working with your therapist can help you understand and process. Over time, you’ll learn how to better manage your mental health symptoms, and how to replace them with healthier habits. Additionally, you will learn how to cope with difficult or uncomfortable situations without letting them cascade into unhealthy behaviors.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, also called CBT, is a type of therapy that helps to target the thoughts and behaviors that are a result of your trauma. For Veterans and First Responders, trauma often leads to self-destructive behaviors that are difficult to control. With CBT, you can learn to identify these behaviors and replace them with healthier, more positive ones. You’ll also learn skills that encourage better communication and self-awareness. This will provide you with the tools that enable you to improve your thoughts and behaviors.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Dialectical behavioral therapy, or DBT, is a type of therapy that is best suited to those who have intense or out-of-the-ordinary responses to certain triggers. As these events can be hallmarks of PTSD, DBT is often a preferred treatment option for Veterans and First Responders. It helps Veterans and First Responders by teaching them effective communication and coping skills to minimize these reactions. DBT also helps to treat some of the symptoms of substance abuse.
Family Therapy
When you are dealing with mental health problems or addiction, it can be difficult to see how your behavior affects those around you. The fact is that the entire family unit is affected by these conditions. From intense feelings, including rage, to the effects of addiction and substance abuse, there are many things that can have a negative impact on your family, even if you try to shield them from your problems.
In family therapy, everyone gets the opportunity to talk about how they’re feeling. Issues with family dynamics, communication, and how certain behaviors may be impacting each member of the family can be addressed in a safe environment that encourages open communication. These issues can be worked out together. This gives the family unit as a whole the chance to heal and become stronger together.
How Can I Tell if I Need Veterans and First Responders Therapy
Not every Veteran needs therapy simply because they served. But for those who experienced trauma, therapy for Veterans and First Responders is likely to be necessary in order to overcome certain mental health symptoms. Some of the signs that you may need therapy include:
- Served in a combat unit.
- Were a victim of military sexual trauma.
- Have a family history of addiction.
- Turned to substance abuse in order to cope with your negative emotions.
- Have trouble controlling your reactions to non-life-threatening events.
Get the Therapy You Need at Sunrise Rehabilitation and Recovery
Millions of Veterans and First Responders experience mental health issues and addiction at some point after they’ve left the service. With issues from trauma to joblessness to homelessness, there are many roots underlying mental illness and addiction issues in Veterans. No matter where your journey has taken you, there is no reason that you have to live with the negative impact that untreated mental health conditions and addiction can cause.
At Sunrise Rehabilitation and Recovery, you can get the care that you need from a team who understands the complexity of experience that military or emergency service can have on a person’s mental well-being. With our range of treatment options, we can build you the most effective recovery plan possible. Our team will get you back on track to both mental and physical wellness. Visit our admissions page or contact us today to learn more about our therapy for Veterans and First Responders programs, and let us help you to reclaim your health and happiness.
