Our Veteran Rehab Program
We provide individualized substance abuse treatment for veterans whose experiences with addiction may be connected to trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or other forms of mental illness. Our intimate setting, serving no more than eight patients at a time, allows our team to understand each veteran as an individual while remaining sensitive to the experiences and challenges associated with military culture.
We offer veteran and alcohol rehab services that combine evidence-based practices with holistic approaches that support healing physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Depending on individual needs, recovery may incorporate medically supervised detox, residential treatment, and individual and group therapy. Methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy DBT), relapse prevention, mindfulness, meditation, and other supportive services may also be used to help veterans address substance use while developing healthier coping skills.
We offer veteran and alcohol rehab services that combine evidence-based practices with holistic approaches that support healing physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Depending on individual needs, recovery may incorporate medically supervised detox, residential treatment, and individual and group therapy. Methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy DBT), relapse prevention, mindfulness, meditation, and other supportive services may also be used to help veterans address substance use while developing healthier coping skills.
I had never seen as much empathy in my entire life in a setting such as this.
– Paul, Army Veteran
Embrace change in recovery!
Our deeply caring staff and the surrounding natural beauty offer an unparalleled healing experience.
Veteran Addiction and
Mental Health Challenges
Experiences during and after military service can contribute to emotional challenges and unhealthy patterns of substance use for some people. Recognizing these potential influences can help ensure that care addresses the individual’s mental health, substance use, and experiences as a whole.
Trauma, combat exposure, deployment, and prolonged periods of stress can continue to affect some veterans after their service ends. The transition from being among active-duty service members to civilian life may also bring changes in identity, routine, responsibilities, and community. Adjusting to these changes can create additional challenges for some veterans as they establish a new sense of structure and purpose.
Physical and emotional challenges can also overlap. Chronic pain, trouble sleeping, and isolation may make everyday life more difficult and can sometimes contribute to unhealthy coping behaviors, including alcohol or drug use. These experiences don’t mean that military service always leads to addiction or a mental health condition. However, they can be important factors to consider when developing individualized care.
Trauma, combat exposure, deployment, and prolonged periods of stress can continue to affect some veterans after their service ends. The transition from being among active-duty service members to civilian life may also bring changes in identity, routine, responsibilities, and community. Adjusting to these changes can create additional challenges for some veterans as they establish a new sense of structure and purpose.
Physical and emotional challenges can also overlap. Chronic pain, trouble sleeping, and isolation may make everyday life more difficult and can sometimes contribute to unhealthy coping behaviors, including alcohol or drug use. These experiences don’t mean that military service always leads to addiction or a mental health condition. However, they can be important factors to consider when developing individualized care.
PTSD, Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression
Experiences such as trauma, combat exposure, and prolonged stress may contribute to mental health conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety disorders in some veterans. These mental health disorders can affect sleep, relationships, emotional regulation, concentration, and the ability to adjust to everyday routines.
When these concerns occur alongside substance use, addressing both can be an important part of recovery. We provide a supportive setting where veterans can explore underlying challenges and develop healthier ways to cope with difficult emotions and experiences.
When these concerns occur alongside substance use, addressing both can be an important part of recovery. We provide a supportive setting where veterans can explore underlying challenges and develop healthier ways to cope with difficult emotions and experiences.
PTSD and Trauma After Military Service
The effects of combat exposure, deployments, and life-threatening experiences can continue after military service ends. Some veterans may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns as they process these experiences. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and military sexual trauma can also create lasting challenges that may require specialized support.
Trauma doesn’t mean that a veteran will develop a substance use disorder (SUD). However, some veterans may use alcohol or drugs to cope with distressing memories, sleep problems, physical pain, or difficult emotions. Evidence-based, trauma-informed care can help veterans address these concerns and develop healthier ways to cope.
Trauma doesn’t mean that a veteran will develop a substance use disorder (SUD). However, some veterans may use alcohol or drugs to cope with distressing memories, sleep problems, physical pain, or difficult emotions. Evidence-based, trauma-informed care can help veterans address these concerns and develop healthier ways to cope.
Substance Use and Addiction Among Veterans
Alcohol or drug use can become a way of coping with chronic pain, stress, trauma, sleep problems, or other challenges for some veterans. Over time, repeated substance use may contribute to an alcohol use disorder or another substance use disorder, with symptoms such as cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and trouble reducing use. Opioid use can present additional concerns, particularly for veterans who have experienced chronic pain or previously received prescription pain medications.
Effective substance abuse treatment can address patterns of use while helping veterans build healthier strategies for managing the challenges that may accompany recovery.
Paul’s story about his time at Hawaii Island Recovery
Effective substance abuse treatment can address patterns of use while helping veterans build healthier strategies for managing the challenges that may accompany recovery.
Paul’s story about his time at Hawaii Island Recovery
I truly felt that people cared, and because I felt they cared, I began to care for myself.
– Paul, Army Veteran
Whole-Person Healing Rooted in Hawaii
Hawaii Island Recovery takes a whole-person approach to healing, recognizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit. From detox and residential treatment through IOP and aftercare, patients are supported within a close-knit community and a setting that incorporates the culture, environment, and spirit of Hawaii.
The people here gave me hope, that is something that I did not have when I walked through the doors.
– Paul, Army Veteran
When Addiction and Mental Health Concerns Occur Together
Substance use disorders can occur alongside mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. These are often referred to as co-occurring disorders. For some veterans, symptoms may overlap and make it more difficult to manage daily responsibilities, relationships, stress, and recovery.
An integrated approach considers both substance use and mental health rather than viewing them as separate concerns. At our treatment center, evidence-based practices can help veterans explore underlying challenges, recognize patterns that may contribute to substance use, and develop healthier coping skills. Individualized care can also address needs related to trauma, cravings, emotional regulation, and relapse prevention as veterans work toward lasting recovery.
An integrated approach considers both substance use and mental health rather than viewing them as separate concerns. At our treatment center, evidence-based practices can help veterans explore underlying challenges, recognize patterns that may contribute to substance use, and develop healthier coping skills. Individualized care can also address needs related to trauma, cravings, emotional regulation, and relapse prevention as veterans work toward lasting recovery.
PTSD and Addiction Treatment
Traumatic experiences can affect sleep, mood, relationships, and the way a veteran responds to stress. Some veterans may use alcohol or drugs to cope with distressing memories, anxiety, emotional discomfort, or other PTSD symptoms. While trauma doesn’t always lead to addiction, repeated substance use can develop into a substance use disorder and create additional challenges in daily life.
Effective care considers the connection between trauma, mental health, and substance use. At our treatment center, trauma-informed approaches help veterans identify triggers and develop healthier coping strategies. Evidence-based therapies such as eye movement desensitization and processing (EMDR), CBT, and DBT may also be incorporated into individualized care to support emotional regulation and recovery.
Effective care considers the connection between trauma, mental health, and substance use. At our treatment center, trauma-informed approaches help veterans identify triggers and develop healthier coping strategies. Evidence-based therapies such as eye movement desensitization and processing (EMDR), CBT, and DBT may also be incorporated into individualized care to support emotional regulation and recovery.
Addressing the Whole Person
Recovery involves more than reducing alcohol or drug use. Mental, emotional, physical, and behavioral health can influence how a person manages stress, relationships, daily responsibilities, and challenges throughout recovery. We take a whole-person approach that helps veterans build coping skills, address underlying concerns, and develop healthier patterns that support long-term well-being.
Veteran Addiction Treatment in Hawaii
Care at our treatment facility begins with an individualized assessment to better understand each veteran’s substance use, mental health concerns, experiences, and recovery needs. From there, our team develops a personalized treatment plan and recommends an appropriate level of care.
Our continuum includes medically supervised detox, residential treatment, and outpatient services, including intensive outpatient programming (IOP). Veterans may also participate in family services, relapse prevention, and continuing care to help maintain progress as they transition to greater independence. This coordinated approach allows care to evolve throughout recovery while providing support for the challenges veterans may face at each stage.
Our continuum includes medically supervised detox, residential treatment, and outpatient services, including intensive outpatient programming (IOP). Veterans may also participate in family services, relapse prevention, and continuing care to help maintain progress as they transition to greater independence. This coordinated approach allows care to evolve throughout recovery while providing support for the challenges veterans may face at each stage.
Residential Rehab for Veterans
A structured residential environment gives veterans the space to step away from everyday triggers and focus more fully on recovery. We provide 24/7 support in an intimate setting that serves no more than eight patients at a time. This small program allows for highly individualized care based on each veteran’s substance use, mental health concerns, and personal recovery goals. With consistent support and fewer outside distractions, veterans can focus on building coping skills and establishing healthier patterns for life beyond residential care.
Outpatient and Continuing Care
Returning to everyday responsibilities can introduce new challenges as veterans continue their recovery. We offer outpatient services and continuing care to provide ongoing support as individuals transition from more structured levels of care. These services can reinforce coping skills, relapse prevention strategies, and healthy routines while veterans navigate work, relationships, and life in the community.
Evidence-Based and Trauma-Informed Care for Veterans
Healing from addiction and co-occurring mental health concerns requires different approaches based on each veteran’s experiences and needs. We combine evidence-based practices with trauma-informed and holistic therapies as part of individualized care.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
A treatment option that helps veterans examine connections between their thoughts, emotions, and behavior is CBT. During recovery, CBT can help identify patterns that contribute to substance use and build healthier ways to respond to stress, cravings, and other triggers.
EMDR for Trauma and PTSD
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is one of the trauma-focused approaches available at our treatment center. It can help veterans process distressing experiences and reduce the emotional impact associated with traumatic memories. EMDR may be incorporated into individualized care for veterans experiencing PTSD, trauma, and co-occurring substance use concerns.
Group and Family Therapy
Family services can help loved ones better understand addiction and recovery, while group therapy gives veterans opportunities to develop recovery skills and connect with others in a supportive setting.
Mindfulness and Holistic Healing
We incorporate holistic and experiential approaches that complement clinical care. Depending on individual needs, these may include mindfulness, meditation, yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, and experiential activities that support physical and emotional well-being.
Begin Your Healing in Paradise
Call Our Compassionate Specialists Today.
A Small, Patient-Centered Program for Veterans
With no more than eight patients at a time, we provide individualized attention within a close-knit recovery community. Our small program gives veterans opportunities to build meaningful relationships with staff and receive care based on their individual needs and experiences. Each individualized treatment plan reflects the patient’s substance use, mental health concerns, recovery goals, and progress. This patient-centered approach helps veterans feel supported as individuals throughout the recovery process.
I got into this program and that’s when my life changed.
– Kai, Army Veteran
Supporting Veterans Beyond Addiction Treatment
Recovery can also involve rebuilding the routines, relationships, and sense of purpose that support life outside of treatment. For veterans, this may include navigating civilian life, returning to work, reconnecting with family, or becoming more involved in the community.
Some veterans, including homeless veterans or those experiencing housing instability, may face additional barriers as they work toward greater stability and independence. Healthy coping strategies and sober support can help veterans manage new responsibilities, maintain recovery, and build a more fulfilling life.
Some veterans, including homeless veterans or those experiencing housing instability, may face additional barriers as they work toward greater stability and independence. Healthy coping strategies and sober support can help veterans manage new responsibilities, maintain recovery, and build a more fulfilling life.
Healing in Hawaii
Located in Kailua-Kona, we offer a close-knit community where recovery is supported by the natural surroundings and local culture of the Big Island. Patients can experience nature-based activities, local cuisine, and cultural influences as part of a broader approach to healing. At HIR, aloha is more than we welcome, but a lifestyle rooted in connection, community, and respect for others.
I owe my life to this place.
– Kai, Army Veteran
When Should a Veteran Seek Help?
Changes in substance use, mental health, relationships, or daily functioning can signal that additional support may be helpful. Veterans and their loved ones may want to consider seeking professional help when they notice:
- Increasing alcohol or drug use
- Using substances to cope with trauma, anxiety, chronic pain, or sleep problems
- Difficulty stopping or controlling substance use
- Experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms
- Nightmares or intrusive memories related to traumatic experiences
- Withdrawing from family, friends, or the community
- Increased anger or irritability
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Struggling to adjust to civilian life
- Trouble managing work or other daily responsibilities
Reaching out early can provide an opportunity to address these concerns before they create further challenges. With individualized support, veterans can develop healthier coping strategies and begin building a stronger foundation for recovery.
Begin Your Healing Today!
Recovery begins with understanding what kind of support is right for you. Contact Hawaii Island Recovery for an individualized assessment, information about available treatment options, and insurance verification. Our admissions team can help determine the appropriate level of care based on your needs and guide you through the next steps toward healing.
Coming here was the best decision I ever made
– Kai, Army Veteran
FAQs
What mental health conditions can veterans receive support for?
Veterans at our treatment center can receive support for mental health concerns that occur alongside substance use, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and trauma-related challenges. Care is individualized to address co-occurring concerns and help veterans develop healthier coping strategies throughout recovery.
What therapies are available for veterans?
For veterans struggling with mental health issues, there are several types of therapy available to provide support and relief. One commonly used therapy is CBT, which helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their mental health symptoms. This type of therapy is effective in treating conditions such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety by teaching coping strategies and improving emotional regulation.
Can veterans use VA benefits or TRICARE for addiction treatment?
Veterans may have access to substance use disorder treatment through VA benefits, TRICARE, or other coverage depending on eligibility and the individual plan. The Department of Veterans Affairs may also connect eligible veterans with care through a VA medical center or approved community providers, including services available through the VA Community Care Network.
How can I verify my insurance?
We are able to accept most insurance plans. Coverage varies depending on your carrier and plan. To determine whether your insurance will cover some or all of the cost of treatment, contact our team today to speak with an Intake Coordinator or complete the Verification of Benefits form on our website. We will work quickly to ascertain your eligibility for insurance coverage for treatment.
What happens during detoxification?
Alcohol and most drugs are potentially toxic substances, particularly when used in excess. With chronic abuse, the human body adapts to the presence of these substances in an effort to counter their lethal effects. When alcohol or drugs are stopped, extreme care must be taken to ensure a safe withdrawal. Detoxification or “detox” refers to the acute phase of the withdrawal process that can be both uncomfortable and dangerous and may require medical intervention. For some patients, a “detox” protocol of prescribed medication may be required to ensure the client is safely detoxed with minimal discomfort.
Can veterans travel to Hawaii for treatment?
Yes, veterans can travel to Hawaii Island Recovery in Kailua-Kona for residential treatment when it is an appropriate fit for their needs. Choosing care away from home can provide distance from familiar triggers and routines, allowing some veterans to focus more fully on recovery in a different environment. However, traveling away from home is not necessary for everyone, and the appropriate setting depends on each person’s circumstances and level of care needs.
How long is veteran addiction treatment?
The length of veteran addiction treatment depends on individual needs, progress, and the appropriate level of care. At our treatment center, the average length of stay is approximately 60 to 75 days, allowing time for patients to address substance use, strengthen coping skills, and prepare for the next stage of recovery.
How does HIR help veterans with PTSD and trauma?
We use trauma-informed care to address PTSD and trauma alongside substance use concerns. Individualized treatment may incorporate evidence-based approaches such as EMDR and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help veterans process traumatic experiences, manage symptoms, and develop healthier coping strategies that support recovery.