Substance Abuse Risk in Military Kids
Children from military families face unique challenges that can contribute to an increased risk of substance abuse. Two significant factors that influence this risk are substance use disparities and the impact of parental deployment.
Substance Use Disparities
Rates of substance use, including alcohol, binge drinking, marijuana use, other illegal drug use, and prescription drug misuse, are greater for children of currently or recently deployed parents in the military compared to children of parents who are not in the military. The risk difference for alcohol use was 7.85, binge drinking was 8.02, marijuana use was 5.30, other illegal drug use was 7.10, and prescription drug misuse was 8.58.
These disparities in substance use among military kids highlight the need for targeted prevention and intervention strategies to address the increased risk they face.
Impact of Parental Deployment
Parental deployment plays a significant role in the substance abuse risk for military kids. The effects of deployment on children's emotional and behavioral well-being can contribute to increased substance use. The stress, uncertainty, and disruption caused by parental deployment can lead some children to turn to substances as a coping mechanism.
A University of Iowa study revealed that children of deployed or recently returned military parents have an increased risk for drinking alcohol, using drugs, binge drinking, using marijuana, and misusing prescription drugs compared to children in non-military families [3]. This increased risk is consistent across all age groups.
Disrupted living arrangements during deployment can further accentuate these increased substance use tendencies. Studies have shown that when at least one parent is deployed, children not living with a parent or relative have a substantially higher risk of binge drinking compared to children from non-military families. Additionally, children with a deployed parent who still live with a parent have a higher risk of binge drinking compared to children of non-military families living with a parent [3].
It's important to recognize the impact of parental deployment on military kids and provide support systems that address their emotional well-being and help reduce the risk of substance abuse. By understanding the substance use disparities and the influence of parental deployment, we can work towards implementing preventive measures and treatment options that cater specifically to the needs of military kids and their families.
Factors Influencing Substance Abuse
When it comes to the risk of substance abuse in military children, there are several factors that can contribute to this increased vulnerability. Two significant factors that influence substance abuse in military kids are childhood trauma effects and combat exposure interaction.
Childhood Trauma Effects
Childhood trauma, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, can have a profound impact on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. It is associated with an increased risk of substance abuse later in life. Studies have found that childhood trauma is linked to current drug use among military children. The experience of trauma during childhood can affect the brain's reward system and increase susceptibility to substance use as a coping mechanism.
Combat Exposure Interaction
Combat exposure refers to the firsthand experience of military personnel in war zones or other high-stress environments. While childhood trauma alone is associated with drug use, there is evidence that combat exposure can interact with childhood trauma to exacerbate the risk of substance abuse. The interaction between combat exposure and childhood trauma has been found to significantly impact alcohol problems, frequent heavy drinking, and lifetime drug use among National Guard and Reserve soldiers.
It is important to note that the effects of childhood trauma and combat exposure on substance abuse may differ. Research suggests that childhood trauma and combat trauma have differential effects on alcohol problems and frequent heavy drinking [4]. Additionally, the presence of both high levels of childhood trauma and high combat exposure is associated with the greatest likelihood of lifetime drug use among National Guard and Reserve soldiers. This indicates that the combination of these two factors can have synergistic effects on substance abuse.
Understanding the influence of childhood trauma and combat exposure on substance abuse in military children is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. By identifying and addressing these underlying factors, it is possible to mitigate the risk of substance abuse and promote the well-being of military children.
Substance Abuse Among Military Families
Military kids face unique challenges that can contribute to an increased risk of substance abuse. Two significant factors that influence this risk are coping mechanisms and disrupted living arrangements.
Coping Mechanisms
Children with a deployed or recently returned parent in the military may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism for dealing with the challenges and stressors associated with parental deployment. The absence of a parent, frequent moves, and the uncertainty of military life can create emotional and behavioral effects on these children, leading them to seek ways to cope with their feelings.
Engaging in substance use may provide temporary relief from feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and sadness. However, relying on substances as a coping mechanism can lead to the development of substance use disorders and other negative consequences. It is crucial to provide support and healthy coping strategies for military kids to navigate the challenges they face without resorting to substance abuse.
Disrupted Living Arrangements
Disrupted living arrangements during a parent's deployment can further accentuate the increased risk of substance use among military kids. Frequent moves, changes in schools, and separations from familiar support systems can disrupt the stability and sense of belonging that children need to thrive.
These disruptions can contribute to feelings of isolation and difficulty in forming and maintaining social connections. In an attempt to fit in or cope with the stress of constant change, some military kids may turn to substance use as a way to cope with the challenges they face. It is crucial to address these disruptions and provide stability and support for military kids to reduce their vulnerability to substance abuse.
Understanding the impact of coping mechanisms and disrupted living arrangements on substance abuse among military families is essential in developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies. By addressing these factors and providing appropriate support systems, we can help mitigate the risks and promote healthier outcomes for military kids.
Unique Challenges for Military Kids
Military kids face unique challenges that can contribute to an increased risk of substance abuse. Two significant factors that influence this risk are increased substance use rates and child maltreatment concerns.
Increased Substance Use Rates
Research shows that children of currently or recently deployed parents in the military have higher rates of substance use compared to children of parents who are not in the military. These rates are consistently higher across different grade levels, including 6th, 8th, and 11th grades [2]. The risk difference for various substances is as follows:
Substance and Risk Difference
Alcohol use: 7.85
Binge drinking: 8.02
Marijuana use: 5.30
Other illegal drug use: 7.10
Prescription drug misuse: 8.58
These increased substance use rates can be attributed to various factors, including the challenges and stressors associated with parental deployment. Substance use may serve as a coping mechanism for military kids to deal with the emotional and behavioral effects experienced during these periods of separation [2].
Child Maltreatment Concerns
Child maltreatment, including neglect and abuse, can be a significant concern in military families. Studies have shown that the incidence of child abuse in families with one parent deployed is 42% higher than for military families during non-deployment times. The stressors associated with parental deployment, disrupted living arrangements, and other factors may contribute to this elevated risk.
It is crucial to address child maltreatment concerns and provide appropriate support and resources for military families to mitigate the risk factors associated with substance abuse in these children.
Understanding the unique challenges faced by military kids, such as increased substance use rates and child maltreatment concerns, is crucial in developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. By addressing these challenges and providing targeted support, we can help mitigate the risks and promote the well-being of military kids.
Risks and Protective Factors
When examining the risk factors and protective factors related to substance abuse among military kids, two significant factors stand out: deployment effects and military culture influence.
Deployment Effects
Parental deployment plays a crucial role in the increased risk of substance abuse among military kids, as noted by Leora Behavioral Health. Children with a deployed or recently returned parent are significantly more likely to engage in binge drinking and substance abuse. These behaviors may serve as coping mechanisms for dealing with the challenges and stressors associated with parental deployment. The emotional and behavioral effects experienced by these children, such as separation anxiety and feelings of loneliness, contribute to their vulnerability.
Military Culture Influence
The influence of military culture on substance abuse risk among military kids cannot be ignored. The unique lifestyle and demands of military service can impact the well-being of both service members and their families. Factors that place service members at risk of substance use disorders include young age, high demands in the line of service, and military sexual trauma.
Furthermore, combat exposure, which is prevalent among military personnel, is associated with increased rates of PTSD, depression, traumatic brain injury, and generalized anxiety. These mental health challenges can further increase the risk of developing a substance use disorder. The unique stressors of military life, such as frequent relocations, separation from loved ones, and the strain of multiple deployments, can contribute to the adoption of maladaptive coping mechanisms, including substance abuse.
Understanding the risks and protective factors associated with substance abuse among military kids is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. By addressing the deployment effects and considering the influence of military culture, we can work towards providing support and resources to mitigate the risk and enhance the well-being of these children.
Addressing Substance Use Disorders
When it comes to addressing substance use disorders among military kids, it is important to focus on both preventative measures and treatment options. By implementing these strategies, we can help mitigate the risks and provide support for those who may be struggling.
Preventative Measures
To reduce the risk of substance use disorders, it is crucial for military leaders to establish clear policies that address alcohol and drug use among service members. These policies should be accompanied by preventative programs that offer education on healthy alternatives to substance use. By promoting positive morale and fostering strong camaraderie, military organizations can create an environment that deters substance abuse.
Education is key in preventing substance use disorders. Military leaders should receive training on identifying substance use disorders, knowing where to refer service members for treatment, and providing non-judgmental support. Tailoring responses to substance use disorders requires sensitivity to cultural norms and military cultural understandings.
Treatment Options
For military kids who are already facing substance use disorders, access to appropriate treatment is essential. The TRICARE health system offers various avenues for seeking help, including intensive outpatient programs, counseling and mental health treatment programs on military bases, and individualized treatment plans tailored to their needs.
Behavioral interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication-assisted therapy can be effective in treating substance use disorders among military kids. These evidence-based approaches can help individuals address the underlying causes of their substance abuse and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
It is crucial to address the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking treatment. Stigma, lack of knowledge, and limited access to high-quality treatment can discourage active duty service members from seeking help for their substance use disorders. By raising awareness, providing education, and improving access to treatment services, we can ensure that military kids receive the support they need to overcome substance use disorders.
By implementing preventative measures and offering effective treatment options, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of substance use disorders among military kids. It is crucial to create a supportive environment that prioritizes the well-being of these individuals and provides them with the necessary resources to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
