Ep 2. The Wounds of War

Addiction Unplugged season 1 episode 2 titled "The Wounds of War" explores the topic of addiction in veterans. The episode shines a light on the struggles veterans endure after returning from combat and how these issues can lead to addiction.

The episode starts with the host, David Marion, speaking with a former soldier who shares his story of how he became addicted to painkillers after receiving injuries during his deployment. He talks about the high-frequency rate of substance abuse among combat veterans and how it serves as a coping mechanism.

The focus then shifts to an interview with a clinical psychologist who discusses the nature of addiction in veterans and how their experiences can trigger substance abuse issues. She divulges that veterans can suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions that can lead to self-medication through substance abuse.

David Marion heads to a rehabilitation center where he meets two veterans who share their journey towards recovery while dealing with addiction. One veteran reveals how he became addicted to painkillers after being prescribed them for an injury sustained during combat. He shares his experience of being caught in a cycle of addiction and how he spiraled out of control, causing him to lose his job, house, and family.

Another veteran speaks about how his addiction to alcohol started with drinking to try and forget the memories of the atrocities he experienced in the war. The interviewee details his story of how drinking led him away from the life he envisioned for himself and how he found himself homeless and contemplating suicide.

The episode takes a closer look at a unique therapy session for veterans dealing with addiction. The program called "Walk and Talk" pairs veterans with therapists who take walks through the park. The program aims to break down barriers and make it easier for the veterans to open up and address their issues. The episode follows one veteran as he goes through a session of walk and talk therapy, with the veteran visually demonstrating the comforting effects the walk and talk therapy provides.

The episode does not just include stories of veteran's struggle with addiction; it also highlights the efforts of rehab centers that offer specialized programs and therapy for veterans. One such facility is a program created by the VA Healthcare System that addresses the needs of veterans who struggle with addiction. The program provides counseling, therapy, medication assistants, and support groups to help veterans reconnect with their life and community.

The episode concludes with a message of hope, featuring stories of veterans who conquered addiction and went on to live fulfilling lives. The host reminds viewers that treatment and therapy are essential in getting on the path of recovery and dealing with addiction as there is no shame in asking for help.

"The Wounds of War" episode of Addiction Unplugged does a great job of shedding light on the challenges faced by veterans who deal with addiction and their journey to recovery. It assists in the creation of awareness for challenges veterans face once they come back to their homes from war zones. It illustrates how addiction is a disease of self-discomfort, and when veterans are put through challenging conditions as in the warzone, this leads to addiction. Furthermore, it generates discussion and helps people understand that there is a need for implementing effective programs for rehabilitating veterans once they return back to their communities.