Whether deployed in combat or simply away from regular life for a while, the heroes from our military face unforeseen difficulties when they return home. These difficulties often present themselves as they try to readjust to civilian life. First responders deal with high-stress situations that are also often traumatizing.

Many individuals mask their struggles with drugs and alcohol. This can exacerbate other issues, such as withdrawal from family, homelessness, unemployment, and criminal behavior. While alcohol remains the most common substance of abuse, illicit and/or prescription drug abuse is on the rise.

These signs require immediate attention. If you are experiencing any of these and need medical attention, call 911. For immediate help in dealing with a suicidal crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 x1.

SIGNS OF IMMEDIATE CRISIS

  • Thinking about hurting or killing yourself
  • Looking for ways to kill yourself
  • Talking about death, dying, or suicide
  • Self-destructive behavior, such as drug abuse, risky use of weapons, etc.

SIGNS A VETERAN OR FIRST RESPONDER IS STRUGGLING

These signs may indicate that a veteran or first responder needs help.

If you or a veteran you know is experiencing any of these, contact the Veterans Crisis Line now at 988 x1.

  • Appearing sad or depressed most of the time
  • Feelings of hopelessness
  • Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
  • Feeling as if there is no reason to live
  • Feeling excessive guilt, shame, or a sense of failure
  • Rage or anger
  • Engaging in risky activities without thinking
  • Increasing alcohol or drug misuse
  • Losing interest in hobbies, work, or school
  • Neglecting personal welfare and appearance
  • Withdrawing from family and friends
  • Exhibiting violent behavior, like punching a hole in the wall or getting into fights
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Getting affairs in order, tying up loose ends, or writing a will

HELP FOR VETERANS

As a veteran, you have access to various military and veteran affairs services that can help with sobriety and recovery. Mental health, substance abuse, and treatment programs and services are available. If you’re not comfortable going through veteran channels in your effort to become clean and sober, there are several alternative options for getting help.

Speak with family, friends, or a trusted religious or spiritual advisor. Some companies offer on-site mental health professionals for employees. You can also pursue government or private-sponsored substance abuse and treatment programs. While government programs often have a waitlist, they tend to be more affordable.

CAUSEWAY OPC
251 Causeway Street
Boston, MA 02114
Referral Phone: 800-865-3384

EDITH NOURSE ROGERS MEMORIAL VETERANS HOSPITAL
200 Springs Road
Bedford, MA 01730
Referral Phone: 781-687-2000

HOME BASE Program offers veterans and service members professional support and evidence-based care to meet their individual recovery goals. Family support and education are also available for loved ones.

VA BOSTON HEALTHCARE SYSTEM, BROCKTON
940 Belmont Street
Brockton, MA 02301
Referral Phone: 508-583-4500
SUD 24-Hour Care (Residential) | Aida Cajdric-Vrhovac (Center for Integrated Residential Care for Addictions (CIRCA)): 774-826-1969
SUD Intensive Outpatient | Judith Bayog (ADTP outpatient): 774-826-1489
SUD Standard Outpatient | Judith Bayog (ADTP outpatient): 774-826-1489

VA BOSTON HEALTHCARE SYSTEM, JAMAICA PLAIN
150 South Huntington Avenue
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Referral Phone: 617-232-9500
SUD 24-Hour Care (Residential) | Monica Roy, SARRTP & Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program: 857-364-5969
SUD Standard Outpatient | Monica Roy, SARRTP & Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program: 857-364-5969

VA CENTRAL WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
421 North Main Street
Leeds, MA 01053-9764
Referral Phone: 413-584-4040
SUD Intensive Outpatient | Susan Molano (SUD Clinic): 413-584-4040 x 6809
SUD Standard Outpatient | Susan Molano (SUD Clinic): 413-584-4040 x 6809

HELP FOR First RESPONDERS

First responders are not immune to addiction and are often reluctant to seek services for a multitude of reasons, including stigma and fear of job loss. They are usually the first ones to a crisis, but the last to ask for help of their own. Below are some programs for first responders only:

McClean LEADER Program https://www.mcleanhospital.org/treatment/leader

Recovery Centers of America https://recoverycentersofamerica.com/substance-abuse-treatment/first-responders/

Vertava Health of Massachusetts https://vertavahealthmassachusetts.com/first-responders/

Aware Recovery Care https://www.awarerecoverycare.com/addiction-epidemic/first-responders

Badge of Life Program can educate and train law enforcement about mental health and suicide prevention. https://badgeoflife.org

Blue H.E.L.P. is a resource to support families after losing a law enforcement member to suicide. https://bluehelp.org

ADDITIONAL SERVICES FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Text “BADGE” to 741741 or visit https://responderstrong.org/crisis-text-line.

Call Safe Call Now at 877-230-6060 for 24/7 crisis referral service. This program serves all public safety and emergency service personnel and their families.

Call Serve and Protect at 615-373-8000 for 24/7 crisis help. This program is for public safety and emergency service personnel. https://serveprotect.org