Addiction Treatment Program for Female Veterans

Signs of Addiction in Veterans

Addiction to drugs or alcohol is characterized by the continued use of a substance even though it’s negatively affecting one’s life to a clinically significant degree.

While a substance use disorder (SUD) should be diagnosed by a mental health professional, knowing the signs and symptoms can help you determine whether you, a friend, or a relative should seek help.

Some of the classic signs of an SUD include:¹

• Finding yourself unable to stop drinking or using drugs despite wanting to.
• Placing yourself in harm’s way while drinking or using drugs (for example, driving under the influence).
• Experiencing changes in relationships due to drinking or drug use.
• Developing increased tolerance over time.
• Feeling sick or experiencing withdrawal after drinking or using drugs.

Are Women Veterans More Prone to Addiction?

While addiction rates have traditionally been lower among women than men, research shows that the rate of Veterans who utilized substance use treatment services through the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has been rising.²

There are several unique risk factors for addiction and obstacles to treatment for women Veterans:²

• Women in the military are more likely to experience sexual violence than men, which is a risk factor for addiction and may make them unwilling to participate in group therapy sessions that include men. 
• Women Veterans may also be more likely to need help with childcare and family responsibilities than their male counterparts, making it more difficult to seek professional treatment.
• Women—especially those with children—may experience increased stigma and shame associated with addiction, which can prevent them from seeking help.

The Benefits of Women-Focused Rehab

Research shows that women Veterans who are offered specialized, women-focused treatment are more likely to engage in and be more receptive to treatment.² There are several reasons why women Veterans can benefit from gender-specific substance use treatment. 

Providers who are trained in issues specific to women Veterans are more aware of the stigmas, difficulties, and other issues that commonly affect women in the military and can provide the understanding and empathy necessary to help them progress in their recovery.²

Women who have served in the military can also benefit from working with peers that have shared similar experiences in the military. Women in these programs may feel more comfortable sharing their feelings on sensitive topics with other women. Formation of a strong, sober network of support is critical to someone’s continued recovery.²

What Types of Drug & Alcohol Treatment Programs Are Available for Women Veterans?

A variety of treatment options are available at women Veteran drug addiction centers, including inpatient and outpatient care. Several factors will help to determine the level of care, including the severity of one’s addiction, whether co-occurring disorders are present, the patient’s living environment, and more.

At Oxford Treatment Center—American Addiction Centers’ Mississippi rehab facility—we’re proud to offer Salute to Recovery: Valkyrie Program designed specifically for women Veterans. This specialized treatment track offers 19 hours of women-only programming, designed to help you find a sense of community while supporting your recovery with a holistic approach.

How Much Does Rehab Cost for Veterans?

Many people who want to begin the process of recovery are hesitant to explore treatment options, believing that it will be difficult to afford treatment. Costs for Veteran drug addiction treatment can vary widely depending on multiple factors.

Some of the factors that determine the cost of your recovery include:

• Length of treatment program.
• The treatment setting (inpatient care is typically more costly than outpatient care).
• The amenities offered at the treatment facility.
• Insurance coverage.

Thankfully, there are many ways to make the cost of rehab more manageable for women Veterans. What services does VA provide for substance use problems Utilizing VA benefits can be a cost-effective way to get care. The VA can provide including screening and assessment, medication, therapy, peer specialists, and more.³ 

Additionally, private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE can also help to lower the out-of-pocket costs of substance use disorder treatment.

Finding Women-Focused Veteran Addiction Treatment Facilities

American Addiction Centers (AAC) network, is proud to work with women Veterans to help them get the care they need to get sober and stay well. Our facilities throughout the U.S. have specialized treatment tracks for Veterans. 

Our Mississippi rehab, Oxford Treatment Center operates a flagship program specifically designed for women Veterans known as Salute to Recovery: Valkyrie Program. This treatment track provides a variety of treatment modalities, therapies, and experiences, including:

• Yoga.
• Anger management.
• Music therapy.
• Equine therapy.
• Challenge course.
• Trauma for her.
• Life skills training.
• Stress reduction.
• Art therapy.
• Medical management.
• Emotional regulation techniques.
• Experiential therapy.

Reach out to our team at to learn more about Salute to Recovery: Valkyrie Program and our other addiction treatment program options. We’re here to help you get sober and build a healthy, substance-free life.

Frequently Asked Questions