While both active-duty military service members and veterans use illicit drugs less than the civilian population, there is a higher rate of alcohol abuse, binge drinking, and a culture that perpetuates the use of alcohol. Additionally, we know that drugs and alcohol are often used as coping mechanisms to numb or avoid depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health symptoms. It is important to understand how our community is impacted by substance use and abuse, and what we can do about it.
We are excited to welcome Dr. Erica Nason of Texas State University to dive into the impacts of substance abuse within the military and veteran community. Dr. Nason is a clinical psychologist and an associate professor in the School of Social Work, serving as the Associate Director of the MSW program. Her research interests primarily center around the prevention and treatment of trauma in at-risk populations. Clinically, she has expertise in the treatment of trauma and substance use disorders. Come ready with questions!
A follow-up peer support "Let's Talk About It: Addiction & Substance Use" event will be on Thursday, Nov 16, 2023, at 6 pm CT hosted by peer leader Alunya Clark. The intent of the follow-up event is to share stories, process thoughts and feelings, and discuss the educational content from this seminar, though you do not have to attend this event to attend the peer support session. Register for the peer support session HERE. Please reach out to VSN staff with any questions: VSN@austin.utexas.edu.
