Substance Abuse Risk in Military Kids
Military children face unique challenges that can impact their risk for substance abuse. Deployment, family dynamics, and other factors contribute to this increased risk. Understanding these factors is crucial in developing effective prevention strategies and providing support to military families.
Impact of Deployment on Substance Abuse
Research indicates that the rates of substance use, including alcohol, marijuana, and other illegal drugs, are higher among children of currently or recently deployed military parents compared to children of parents who are not in the military [1]. The effects are consistent across different grades, including 6th, 8th, and 11th grades. Disrupted living arrangements during deployment further accentuate the increased substance use risk.
Substance Use Trends in Military Families
Children of currently or recently deployed military parents have been found to have higher rates of substance use compared to their non-military peers. Studies have shown that these children have higher rates of alcohol use, binge drinking, marijuana use, other illegal drug use, and prescription drug misuse [1].
To provide a clearer picture, here are the risk differences in substance use between children of currently or recently deployed military parents and children of parents who are not in the military:
Substance Use 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
Figures courtesy PubMed
These trends indicate a need for targeted interventions and support services to address the elevated risk of substance abuse in military kids.
Understanding the impact of deployment and recognizing the substance use trends in military families allows for the development of effective prevention strategies and the provision of appropriate support. By addressing these factors, we can work towards reducing the risk of substance abuse in military children and providing them with the necessary tools for a healthy and thriving future.
Factors Influencing Substance Abuse
Several factors contribute to the increased risk of substance abuse among military kids. Childhood trauma and combat exposure are two significant factors that can influence substance use in this population.
Childhood Trauma and Substance Use
Childhood trauma has been associated with an increased likelihood of engaging in substance use. Studies have shown that individuals who have experienced trauma during their childhood are more susceptible to turning to substances as a coping mechanism. Although there is no significant interaction between childhood trauma and combat exposure regarding current drug use, there is a significant interaction when it comes to alcohol problems, frequent heavy drinking, and lifetime drug use among National Guard and Reserve soldiers.
The experience of trauma during childhood can have long-lasting effects on mental health and well-being. It is important to provide appropriate support and interventions for military kids who have experienced trauma to mitigate the risk of substance abuse.
Combat Exposure and Alcohol Problems
Combat exposure, a common occurrence in military families, has also been linked to alcohol-related problems. The stress and trauma associated with combat situations can contribute to the development of alcohol use disorders. Military personnel who have been exposed to combat are more likely to experience alcohol-related issues.
It is worth noting that combat exposure has a significant interaction with childhood trauma in relation to alcohol problems. This interaction increases the risk of alcohol-related issues, frequent heavy drinking, and lifetime drug use among National Guard and Reserve soldiers.
Understanding the impact of combat exposure on alcohol-related problems is crucial for providing appropriate support and interventions for military kids and their families. By addressing the specific challenges associated with combat exposure, it is possible to reduce the risk of substance abuse in this population.
The factors influencing substance abuse in military kids are complex and multifaceted. Childhood trauma and combat exposure are just two examples of the many factors that contribute to the increased risk of substance use. By recognizing and addressing these factors, we can work towards implementing effective prevention strategies and interventions to support the well-being of military kids and reduce the risk of substance abuse.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse
The mental health of military kids plays a significant role in their susceptibility to substance abuse. Understanding the statistics and behavioral patterns is crucial in addressing this issue effectively.
SAMHSA National Helpline Statistics
SAMHSA’s National Helpline has been a vital resource for individuals and families facing mental and substance use disorders. In 2020 alone, the helpline received 833,598 calls, representing a 27 percent increase from the previous year. This substantial rise in individuals seeking help indicates the growing prevalence of mental health and substance abuse issues.
Mental and Behavioral Health Visits
Studies have shown that military children may experience an increase in mental and behavioral health visits when a parent is deployed. For children between the ages of 3 and 8, these visits increased by 11 percent. Moreover, behavioral disorders increased by 19 percent, and stress disorders increased by 18 percent in this age group [4].
Deployment of a parent in military families may also lead to emotional and behavioral difficulties in children across all age groups. This can result in higher rates of healthcare visits for psychological problems during the deployment period [5]. Research has also found an association between parental deployment and increased behavior problems in children between the ages of 0 and 47 months. Additionally, problematic attachment behaviors during reunions have been observed.
It is essential to recognize that even children as young as infants are impacted by the deployment of a military parent. Outpatient visits increased by 7 percent, and well-child visits increased by 8 percent in a sample of approximately 170,000 U.S. children under the age of 2 during periods of deployment [5].
Understanding the mental and behavioral health visits and the impact of parental deployment on military children is crucial in identifying and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to the increased risk of substance abuse. By providing necessary support and resources, we can help mitigate the potential harmful effects and promote the overall well-being of military kids.
Military Family Dynamics
Growing up in a military family can have a significant impact on the lives of children. The unique experiences and challenges faced by military kids can influence various aspects of their well-being, including the risk of substance abuse. In this section, we will explore the effects of military family membership and the relationship between sibling deployment and substance use.
Effects of Military Family Membership
Children from military families have different experiences compared to their civilian peers. They often face frequent relocations, indirect exposure to conflict, and separation from parents or siblings due to deployment. The impact of military family membership on child well-being is a complex issue that is not yet fully understood [6].
While military-connected youth were not found to have poorer overall well-being compared to civilian children, certain factors can put them at a greater risk of adjustment difficulties, including substance use and externalizing behavior. Those with deployed parents and older military-connected children are particularly vulnerable to these challenges [6].
Sibling Deployment and Substance Use
Having a sibling in the military and experiencing sibling deployment has been found to be statistically associated with substance use and depressive symptoms in military children. The absence of a sibling due to deployment can create emotional stress and disrupt the family dynamic, potentially leading to increased substance use as a coping mechanism.
It is important to recognize the impact of sibling deployment on military children and provide them with appropriate support during this challenging time. Open communication, access to resources, and involvement in support programs can help mitigate the potential negative effects and reduce the risk of substance abuse.
Understanding the dynamics of military families, including the effects of military family membership and the relationship between sibling deployment and substance use, can guide efforts to provide targeted support and intervention strategies for military children. By addressing the unique challenges faced by these children, we can help promote their well-being and reduce the risk of substance abuse.
Substance Use in Military Youth
The risk for substance abuse is higher in military-connected youth compared to their nonmilitary peers. Several studies have highlighted the increased likelihood of substance use and adjustment difficulties in military children and adolescents. Understanding these challenges is crucial for providing the necessary support and interventions.
Substance Use Odds in Military-Connected Youth
Research has shown that military-connected youth have higher odds of engaging in substance use compared to nonmilitary-connected peers. For example, a study conducted in California found that military-connected youth had 73% greater odds of recent other drug use and twice the odds of bringing a gun to school compared to their nonmilitary-connected counterparts [7]. The table below summarizes the increased odds of substance use in military youth:
Substance Use and Odds Ratio
Recent other drug use: 1.73
Bringing a gun to school: 2.00
Data courtesy of JAMA Pediatrics
These findings emphasize the need for targeted prevention and intervention strategies to address substance use in military-connected youth.
Adjustment Difficulties in Military Children
Children of currently or recently deployed military parents also face higher rates of substance use and adjustment difficulties compared to children of parents who are not in the military. The effects are consistent across different grades and include higher rates of alcohol use, binge drinking, marijuana use, other illegal drug use, and prescription drug misuse. The table below provides the risk differences for substance use in children of deployed military parents:
Substance Use 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
Data courtesy of PubMed
These findings underscore the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by military children and providing appropriate support systems to mitigate the risk of substance abuse.
Understanding the increased risk for substance use in military youth is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. By acknowledging the unique circumstances and challenges faced by military-connected youth, we can work towards creating a supportive environment that promotes their well-being and reduces the risk of substance abuse.
Substance Use Prevention
Preventing substance abuse among military children is crucial for their well-being and long-term health. By implementing effective intervention strategies and providing support for military families, we can help reduce the risk of substance abuse in this vulnerable population.
Intervention Strategies
Intervention strategies play a vital role in preventing substance abuse among military children. These strategies aim to address risk factors and promote protective factors that can mitigate the likelihood of substance use.
One effective intervention strategy is early education and prevention programs. By providing age-appropriate information about the risks and consequences of substance use, children can develop a better understanding of the potential harms involved. These programs can be implemented in schools, community centers, and military installations to reach a wide range of military children.
Another important intervention strategy is promoting positive coping skills and resilience. Military children face unique stressors related to parental deployments, frequent relocations, and the challenges of military life. By equipping them with healthy coping mechanisms and building their resilience, they can better navigate these stressors without turning to substances as a means of escape.
Furthermore, family-based interventions are essential in preventing substance use among military children. Strengthening family bonds, improving communication, and fostering a supportive and nurturing environment can help protect children from engaging in risky behaviors. Involving parents and caregivers in substance abuse prevention programs can enhance their knowledge and skills in effectively addressing substance-related issues.
Support for Military Families
Supporting military families is crucial in preventing substance abuse among military children. Providing access to comprehensive healthcare services that address mental health and substance use disorders is paramount. The VA health care program offers services to treat substance use problems for Veterans, providing options ranging from unhealthy alcohol use to life-threatening addiction. This includes proven medication options, counseling, therapy, and treatment for related health conditions.
Additionally, connecting military families with community resources is essential. Collaborating with community organizations and support groups can provide families with access to counseling, therapy, and other forms of assistance. These resources can offer guidance, education, and support to military children and their families, helping them navigate the challenges they face and reduce the risk of substance abuse.
By implementing intervention strategies and providing support for military families, we can work towards reducing the risk of substance abuse in military children. It is crucial to prioritize their well-being and provide them with the tools and resources necessary to navigate the unique challenges they encounter in the military lifestyle.
