PTSD and Drinking Can Send Life into a Tailspin

Drinking is a common activity that is usually ingrained in the military experience. But what happens when drinking is used as a self-medicating coping mechanism? Things can spiral out of control in a hurry.

Just listen to this Marine veteran’s experience with drinking.

When I drank, got drunk, you know, all the anxiety, depression, my purpose, the betrayal – all that, it went out the window …

For the next 3 years I was drunk probably – drunk or hung over 75 percent of the time. So when I went out I couldn’t just have one … and that caused problems.

For veterans struggling with PTSD, drinking might feel like a temporary solution to what you’re going through. Unfortunately, it isn’t a solution at all. If drinking has become a problem for you, and you’re ready to take control of your life, please check out some of the VA’s resources for getting the help you need.