As Memorial Day approaches, Americans nationwide prepare to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Ceremonies will be held, flags will be flown at half-staff, and families will gather to pay tribute. But amid the solemnity and gratitude lies a quieter, often overlooked truth. Many of our heroes return home not to peace but to a new battlefield, one waged within.

It’s a battle that doesn’t make headlines and is waged silently behind closed doors, far from the front lines. Military service members and Veterans face unique and profound challenges that can linger long after their tours of duty end. While we rightfully celebrate their courage and sacrifice, we too often fail to recognize the invisible wounds many carry, particularly those that lead to substance use disorders.

The harsh reality is that exposure to combat, traumatic injuries, and the pressure to reintegrate into civilian life all contribute to an increased risk of developing a substance use disorder, experiencing drug overdose, or suicidal ideation. 

The connection between military service and addiction is not often discussed, but it should be. According to census data, in 2022, 580,856 veterans lived in New York State. While it is challenging to know how many veterans in local communities struggle with addiction and mental health issues, there are some national and state trends among veterans and the general population that offer some insight into the problems. 

Veteran suicide data in New York State, for example, shows that New York Veterans continued to die by suicide at nearly twice the rate of the general population. Suicide rates among both groups also increased slightly between 2021 and 2022, with the veteran suicide rate rising by 2.6 percent and the suicide rate among the general population increasing by 5.8 percent, according to the New York Health Foundation. 

Nationally, the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that 6.3 percent of veterans had a substance use disorder in the past year. Alcohol use, for example, was common among 56 percent of veterans, while 22 percent engaged in binge drinking, and 5.2 percent experienced an alcohol use disorder.  

Alcohol abuse, in general, unfortunately, is a common precursor for addiction and suicidal ideation and increases the risk of drug overdose. According to the Office of Addiction Services and Supports, 2.8 million New Yorkers aged 12 and older had a substance use disorder in the past year. In 2022, 6,358 New York State residents died of a drug overdose, and 2,003 died from alcohol-related causes. 

We need to normalize conversations around mental health and addiction within military culture. We should also support community-based organizations and nonprofits doing critical work in this space. Many of these groups offer holistic, veteran-centered services that go beyond what traditional institutions can provide, from non-traditional therapy and outdoor rehabilitation programs to job training and sober housing.

We must also expand access to comprehensive, trauma-informed care, particularly in rural areas where resources are scarce. Fortunately, there are some resources to help, such as the Veterans Crisis Line; dial 988, then press 1, or text 838255 anywhere in the state. The state Department of Veteran Services has veteran benefits advisors available at 888/838-7697. State-certified treatment programs are available through the Office of Addiction Services and Supports or by calling 877/8-HOPENY (467369) or texting HOPENY (467369).

The connection between military service and substance use disorders is not a comfortable topic. But it is a necessary one. To truly honor the men and women who defend our freedoms, we must be willing to confront the unseen battles they face and commit ourselves to being part of their recovery. This Memorial Day, let’s do more than remember the dead. Let’s fight for the living.

Jody Boulay is a mother of two with a passion for helping others. She currently works as a community outreach coordinator for DRS to help spread awareness of the dangers of drugs and alcohol.