Substance use disorders and mental health problems impact countless veterans. Unfortunately, too many slip through the cracks and never get help. While there are many reasons for this, it is often a lack of early intervention, stigma with addiction and, in some cases, inadequate drug education.

However, early intervention is vital, with the best approaches being conversations and even drug education. While it is challenging to know how many veterans have substance use disorders and mental health problems, it’s safe to say there are many struggling in silence. Yet, we can reach those close to us and those in the community.