Which substance is most likely to be abused by veterans?

Which substance is most likely to be abused by veterans?

• A. Cocaine
• B. Alcohol
• C. Marijuana
• D. Heroin

Answer: (B)

Alcohol use problems are more common in veterans than misuse of most other substances. This stems from a combination of factors: exposure to trauma and ongoing PTSD symptoms, chronic pain from injuries, and the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism to relax, sleep, or numb distress. Alcohol is also widely available and socially accepted, making it easier to self-medicate than illicit drugs. While substances like cocaine, heroin, or marijuana can be misused, their overall prevalence in veteran populations is lower, so alcohol stands out as the substance most likely to be abused in this group.

Alcohol use problems are more common in veterans than misuse of most other substances. This stems from a combination of factors: exposure to trauma and ongoing PTSD symptoms, chronic pain from injuries, and the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism to relax, sleep, or numb distress. Alcohol is also widely available and socially accepted, making it easier to self-medicate than illicit drugs. While substances like cocaine, heroin, or marijuana can be misused, their overall prevalence in veteran populations is lower, so alcohol stands out as the substance most likely to be abused in this group.