An Ecosystemic Perspective in the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress and Substance Use Disorders in Veterans

Abstract

This article reviews the prevalence of co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders (SUDs) in the veteran population. Recommendations regarding how to better understand, engage, and retain veterans with PTSD/SUDs in treatment are presented through an ecological perspective that takes into account the multiple systems and worldviews, including culture, ethnicity, family, and military culture, that are transacting with the individual. A case example illustrates the multifaceted approach that the authors feel is necessary to increase treatment participation and retention with military clients. This article can be useful for both civilian social work clinicians and those working in military or veteran treatment settings.

Keywords:

• dual diagnosis
• meaning making
• military
• PTSD
• substance use disorders
• systems
• veterans
• worldviews