For many military veterans, transitioning to civilian life presents unique challenges. Among the most profound are the psychological wounds, such as moral injury, that may not be immediately visible. Unlike physical injuries, moral injury stems from deep internal conflict caused by actions that go against a person’s moral or ethical beliefs. This internal struggle often leaves veterans questioning their identity and morality.
What Is Moral Injury?
Moral injury occurs when a veteran’s sense of right and wrong is challenged by something they’ve done or witnessed during their service. This could be an act of violence, a decision made in the heat of combat, or even witnessing harm being inflicted without the ability to intervene. These experiences can deeply shake a veteran’s moral compass, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and internal conflict. When left unaddressed, moral injury can result in more profound psychological struggles, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and, in many cases, substance use disorder (SUD).
The Connection Between Moral Injury and Substance Use
The emotional toll of moral injury can drive veterans to turn to substances as a way to numb or escape the painful emotions they’re experiencing. Unfortunately, this often leads to a cycle of distress, furthering the isolation many veterans feel upon returning home. Instead of finding solace, they may feel more disconnected from loved ones and less capable of managing the overwhelming emotions accompanying moral injury. Substance use can intensify these struggles, pushing veterans further from the support they need.
Navigating Civilian Life with Moral Injury
When veterans return home, they often struggle to adjust from a highly structured, mission-oriented military life to the unpredictability of civilian life. For those carrying the emotional weight of moral injury, reconnecting with family and friends can be especially difficult. Feelings of guilt, anger, and inadequacy may surface, and without proper support, many veterans may turn to harmful coping mechanisms, such as substance use, to manage these emotions.
Support for Veterans: Serving Those Who Served
At WakeUp Carolina, we recognize the profound impact moral injury can have on veterans’ lives. We’ve established the Serving Those Who Served program to provide the support veterans need. This program offers a safe and supportive environment for veterans to share their experiences and begin the healing process. Our meetings are held every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at our Moncks Corner location: 325 E. Main Street, Moncks Corner, SC 29461.
We are committed to helping veterans address the effects of moral injury, PTSD, and substance use, guiding them toward a path of healing, reconnection, and hope.
Immediate Help for Veterans in Crisis
If you are a veteran in crisis, please dial 988 and press 1 for immediate assistance.
