Still standing, still struggling, the Veterans we can’t forget

Memorial Day is a solemn occasion to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. We attend parades, place flags at gravesites, and take quiet moments of reflection. But beyond the ceremonies and speeches lies another, often invisible war, one that too many of our veterans and active-duty service members are still fighting. Countless veterans struggle with substance use disorders, suicidal ideation, and an increasing risk of drug overdose.

It’s a battle that doesn’t make headlines and is waged silently behind closed doors, far from the front lines. Yet, for countless military personnel, the struggle with addiction is as real and as relentless as any combat mission. Service members often endure intense physical and psychological stress.

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. The connection between military service and addiction is not often discussed, but it should be.

According to census data, in 2022, 607,506 veterans lived in Georgia. 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 issues.

Veteran suicide deaths in Georgia, for example, show they were significantly higher than the national general population suicide rate, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. In 2021, there were 226 veteran suicides, a rate of 33 deaths per 100,000 residents.

Nationally, the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that 6.3% of veterans had a substance use disorder in the past year. Alcohol use, for example, was common among 56% of veterans, while 22% engaged in binge drinking, and 5.2% 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 Georgia Department of Public Health, 24 counties in Georgia documented over 20 opioid involved overdose deaths in 2022. In December of 2024, 10 different counties in the state have seen over a 75% increase in the number of drug overdose emergency department visits.

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 Georgia Crisis and Access Line is available at 1-800-715-4255. The NAMI Georgia Helpline is also available at 1-770-408-0625, a non-crisis helpline.

This Memorial Day, while we remember the fallen, let’s also remember those still fighting against the weight of their memories, their pain, and the stigma that keeps them from seeking help. Let’s make it clear that their service matters. Their struggles matter. And they are not alone.

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.