Heavy alcohol use is firmly rooted in military culture. In many environments, personnel on active duty use alcohol for recreation, to relieve stress, and as a way to socialize and connect with others. However, despite the policies and programs in place to moderate alcohol consumption in the military, alcoholism remains a continuing problem for veterans and service members.
Signs a Veteran May Be Abusing Alcohol
It’s not easy for service members to return stateside after being deployed and resume a normal life. Many veterans develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can lead to alcohol abuse and alcoholism, also diagnosed as alcohol use disorder (AUD). Family members may have concerns about a veteran’s reliance on alcohol but not be sure if there’s a serious problem.
Here are signs that a veteran or active military member may have AUD:
- Appears that drinking, being sick, and/or hangovers interfere with a person's job, taking care of family, or other responsibilities
- Cares more about drinking than spending time pursuing activities they once enjoyed
- Exhibits withdrawal symptoms when trying to cut back or quit drinking such as anxiety, nausea, sweating, insomnia, and shaking
- Puts themselves in dangerous situations while drinking
- Attempts to stop drinking or cut back but is unsuccessful
- Appears paranoid, fearful, and/or nervous
- Acts in a secretive way
- Continues to drink even after harming relationships
- Exhibits a change in sleeping and eating habits
- Has unexpected mood changes, erratic behavior, and/or angry outbursts
- Lacks motivation or enthusiasm but can appear unusually happy and energetic at times
- Stops taking care of appearance and hygiene
- Shows a significant decrease or increase in weight
- Smells of alcohol on a regular basis
- Slurs speech and appears to have poor motor coordination
- Lacks an ability to maintain responsibilities at work, at home, or with friends and family
Our Nebraska-Based VA Disability Lawyers Help Veterans Nationwide Get The Disability Benefits They Deserve
At Cuddigan Law, we understand that veterans may have problems with alcohol after developing PTSD. We also know that PTSD is a debilitating mental condition that can severely and negatively impact your life. Our attorneys have supported veterans for years, and we’ll carefully examine your case and advise you on how best to move forward. If you’d like a free evaluation of your disability case, call Cuddigan Law, and speak to an intake specialist for free.
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