Early intervention, resilience key to alcohol abuse prevention

CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JAPAN

05.04.2012

Courtesy Story

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

CAMP FOSTER, Japan - Alcohol Awareness Month was founded by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence in 1987 and is held every April. Activities during the month focus on increasing public awareness and understanding of substance dependence and reducing the stigma that too often prevents individuals and families from seeking help.

Alcohol abuse is defined as any harmful use of alcohol that leads to inappropriate conduct, decreased job performance or legal problems.

One of the issues facing alcohol-abuse prevention in the military is differentiating between alcohol abuse and alcohol-related incidents. Not every person who has an alcohol-related incident abuses alcohol. Likewise, an individual could be an alcohol abuser without having an alcohol-related incident.

A good way to prevent alcohol abuse is to keep an eye on those with potential personal risk factors of developing alcoholism. These indicators include a family history of substance abuse problems, steady drinking over time, age, sex and a history of depression.

Environmental risk factors, like work-related stress, uncontrollable social situations, loneliness and interpersonal conflicts can increase the potential for alcohol abuse. These factors can be mitigated by avoiding situations where alcohol consumption is the focus. Get involved with the Single Marine Program, the United Service Organizations, or other volunteer organizations, or seek guidance through your chain of command or chaplain’s office when dealing with homesickness or conflicts with roommates or co-workers.

Another problem plaguing the prevention of alcohol abuse, especially in the military community, is the stigma that those who seek help are weak or damaged. This is simply not the case.

As Marines, we are supposed to know ourselves and seek self-improvement. Reaching out for help when needed instead of pretending the problem does not exist shows true moral courage. Leaders need to make it known that seeking help does not make you weak or less of a Marine.

It is also important for Marines to realize the stereotype of seeing the substance abuse control officer as a punishment is not true. The SACO is there to help Marines get treatment and assistance.

Once a Marine gets help and possibly goes to treatment, it is imperative the leadership stays engaged and keeps the Marine from high-risk situations, which might hinder their ability to successfully complete treatment.

To accomplish these goals, the Substance Abuse Counseling Center offers many educational classes and programs, in addition to screenings and treatment plans. For more information, visit www.mccsokinawa.com/mccs or call 645-3009.

Brewer was the substance abuse control officer for 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, III MEF.

• Date Taken: 05.04.2012
• Date Posted: 05.03.2012 20:26
• Story ID: 87847
• Location: CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JP