Veterans are an important part of communities throughout California, including Sacramento County. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 67,205 veterans lived in Sacramento County during the 2020–2024 reporting period, while California was home to about 1.5 million veterans. Although military experiences vary widely, some veterans face lasting physical or emotional challenges that can contribute to substance use concerns.
Substance use and overdose remain serious concerns among California veterans, but recent data also offer encouraging signs of progress. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), 600 California veterans died from drug-related overdoses in 2023, compared with 499 in 2024. This represents an encouraging decline of approximately 17 percent.
Despite this progress, understanding substance use risks and recognizing warning signs remain important steps toward protecting veterans’ health and well-being.
Understanding Substance Use Disorders
A substance use disorder (SUD) is a medical condition in which a person continues using alcohol or drugs despite harmful consequences. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), substance use can affect brain function, making it increasingly difficult to control alcohol or drug use.
Warning signs may include:
Strong cravings for alcohol or drugs.
Difficulty reducing or stopping substance use.
Needing larger amounts to experience the same effects.
Withdrawal symptoms when substance use stops.
Continued use despite problems with health or relationships.
Factors That May Increase Veteran Substance Use Risks
Research examining substance use among veterans suggests that military experiences and the transition to civilian life can influence substance use patterns. Some veterans experience ongoing physical pain or emotional distress related to their service, which may increase their vulnerability to substance use problems.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is another important consideration. Veterans experiencing trauma-related symptoms may use alcohol or drugs to cope with emotional distress. Although substances may provide temporary relief, substance use can worsen existing symptoms and increase the risk of dependence. Research on substance use among veterans highlights the importance of addressing co-occurring mental health conditions during treatment.
How Overdose Affects California Veterans
An overdose occurs when a substance overwhelms the body's ability to function safely. Opioid overdoses are particularly dangerous because they can slow or stop breathing. The California Association of Veteran Service Agencies highlights the significant role of fentanyl in opioid-related overdose deaths among veterans. According to the CDPH, fentanyl was involved in 209 California veteran overdose deaths in 2024, while psychostimulants, including methamphetamine, were involved in 306 deaths. Some overdoses involved multiple substances, meaning these categories can overlap.
The CDPH data also reveal differences across demographic groups. In 2024, California veterans aged 60-69 accounted for the largest share of overdose deaths at 34.5 percent, followed by those aged 50–59 at 21.2 percent. Male veterans also accounted for approximately 94 percent of California veteran overdose deaths in 2024.
The report also identified the following data for overdose deaths:
White veterans: 57.9 percent.
Black veterans: 20 percent.
Hispanic or Latino veterans: 16.8 percent.
Although these findings identify populations experiencing a greater share of overdose deaths, they do not reflect the likelihood of overdose. Any veteran with a substance use disorder may be at risk, regardless of age or background.
Supporting Substance Use Recovery
Addressing substance use concerns early can help veterans improve their health and prevent more serious complications. Treatment can help veterans understand their substance use patterns and develop strategies to reduce or stop alcohol or drug use.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), treatment for substance use disorders may include counseling or medication, depending on individual needs. Counseling can help veterans identify patterns of substance use and develop healthier coping strategies, while certain medications can help manage cravings or withdrawal symptoms.
Recovery may take time, and progress can vary from person to person. Seeking treatment early can help veterans address substance use concerns before they become more severe.
Finding Veteran Support in Sacramento County
Veterans seeking help with substance use can find information about treatment and recovery services through state and federal programs.
The California Department of Veterans Affairs provides information about substance use disorders and available assistance. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also offers guidance on treatment options and how to access care.
In Sacramento County, individuals can reach out to our Behavioral Health Services-Screening and Coordination (BHS-SAC) team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling (916) 875-1055 or visiting us at https://dhs.saccounty.gov/us/en/behavioral-health.html.
