Reintegrating into civilian life after military service can be challenging in ways that extend far beyond the battlefield. Many veterans return home carrying physical pain and emotional scars that are often managed through prescription opioids. While these medications can be effective for short-term pain relief, long-term use can develop into a cycle of dependence, which undermines physical health, mental well-being, and personal relationships.

Opioid Addiction Impacts Veterans

At Overcome Wellness & Recovery, we offer specialized Opioid Addiction Treatment in Lakewood designed for veterans. Our approach honors the sacrifices made by service members while supporting their full recovery with dignity and evidence-based care.

Why Veterans Face a Greater Risk

Chronic pain and psychological trauma are common realities for veterans. In response, opioids such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl are frequently prescribed to manage physical symptoms. However, over time, these medications can lose effectiveness, leading individuals to take higher doses or seek out more potent alternatives, including illicit opioids.

Additionally, co-occurring conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression often go untreated, compounding the risk of misuse. When emotional distress meets physical discomfort, opioids may seem like the only way to cope—until dependency quietly takes hold.

Our veteran care model prioritizes a dual-focus approach, treating both pain and the emotional wounds that contribute to substance use.

Spotting the Warning Signs

Veterans may feel pressure to appear strong and resilient, which can delay the decision to seek help. Family members, friends, or caregivers can play a key role in identifying red flags that signal opioid misuse:

  • Needing increased doses to achieve the same effect
  • Displaying symptoms of withdrawal between doses
  • Withdrawing socially or emotionally from loved ones
  • Seeking multiple prescriptions from different providers
  • Sudden changes in mood, including agitation or sadness

Recognizing these symptoms early allows for timely intervention, which significantly improves recovery outcomes.

The Impact on Families

Opioid addiction has ripple effects that can strain even the most resilient family structures. Spouses may take on caregiving roles and struggle to maintain stability, while children may be confused or emotionally affected by their parent’s unpredictable behavior.

Without proper support, family members can experience anxiety, burnout, and trauma of their own. At Overcome, we involve loved ones in the healing process through therapy, education, and support groups, helping families strengthen their bond and rebuild trust during recovery.

Addressing Trauma Through Therapy

Many veterans turn to substances like opioids to escape unresolved emotional trauma. That’s why true healing must extend beyond physical detox—it must address the psychological root of the addiction.

Our trauma-informed therapy offerings include:

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma resolution
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for reframing thought patterns and developing coping tools
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to regulate emotions and reduce impulsive behaviors
  • Mindfulness-based strategies to foster balance and presence

Each treatment plan is customized based on individual experiences and goals, ensuring the veteran’s voice is central in every step of care.

Flexible, Veteran-Centered Programs

Our services are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing veterans to choose the level of support that best fits their lifestyle and needs.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Our PHP offers full-day support and structured therapeutic care without requiring an overnight stay. Veterans benefit from medical monitoring, therapy sessions, and peer interaction, while returning home in the evenings to maintain family and community ties.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Ideal for those balancing employment, education, or caregiving, our IOP provides several therapy sessions per week. Participants engage in individual counseling, group therapy, and relapse prevention—all while continuing to live at home.

Continued Outpatient Support

As progress is made, our outpatient options help clients sustain long-term recovery through regular check-ins, therapeutic support, and life planning.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medications can play a vital role in helping veterans manage opioid cravings, reduce relapse risk, and maintain stability. When part of a comprehensive care plan, the following options are available:

  • Buprenorphine to control cravings and minimize withdrawal symptoms
  • Naltrexone or Vivitrol to block the euphoric effects of opioids
  • Naloxone (Narcan) as a life-saving tool to reverse overdose in emergencies

At our center for Opioid Addiction Treatment in Lakewood, our clinical team closely monitors each client’s response to medication and ensures integration with therapy and lifestyle changes.

Supporting Whole-Person Healing

Addiction affects more than just the body—it impacts identity, purpose, and community. Our recovery programs address these deeper elements through:

  • Psychoeducation on addiction, coping skills, and emotional intelligence
  • Expressive outlets like art and journaling for emotional expression
  • Grounding practices, such as breathwork and meditation, to ease anxiety
  • Case management and life-skills coaching for community reintegration and independence

Through our specialized Opioid Addiction Treatment in Lakewood, we guide veterans through each phase of recovery, ensuring they feel supported both inside and outside the treatment setting.

Your Next Mission: Recovery

Overcoming opioid addiction requires courage, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Overcome Wellness & Recovery, we walk beside you as you build a new path forward. Our experienced team is here to help you heal with compassion, clinical expertise, and respect for your military experience.

If you or someone you love is seeking personalized Opioid Addiction Treatment in Lakewood, we’re ready when you are.

Call (732) 505-7261 or visit our website to get started.