*Military OneSource does not provide medical counseling services for issues such as depression, substance abuse, suicide prevention or post-traumatic stress disorder. The article below is intended for informational purposes only. Military OneSource can provide referrals to your local military treatment facility, TRICARE or another appropriate resource.
Understanding and identifying a substance abuse problem, whether in your life or that of a friend, can be an emotional journey. Anyone can be at risk for substance abuse; however, it can often be triggered by major military life stressors such as combat, deployment, field duty, and frequent moves or separations from family. Know the triggers, warning signs and where to get help.
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Defining substance abuse
Substance abuse is defined as the wrongful use of a controlled substance, prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, or intoxicating substance to the extent that it has an adverse effect on performance, conduct, discipline, or mission effectiveness. If a person is dependent on drugs or alcohol, treatment may include monitoring by a medical professional for signs of physical withdrawal. Most people who abuse alcohol and/or drugs need long-term support or professional help.
Risk factors
Triggers of substance abuse include:
- Using drugs or alcohol to socialize or relax
- Depression, post-traumatic stress and anxiety
Warning signs
A person can become dependent on drugs or alcohol gradually, or over a short period of time. Some warning signs of substance abuse include:
- Decreased energy, loss of appetite
- Unexplained injuries and falls
- Denial of a substance abuse problem
- Irritability, agitation, mood swings, anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, memory lapses and black outs
- Financial difficulties due to spending money on alcohol or drugs
- Trouble with the law, citations for driving under the influence, public intoxication, underage drinking, possession of drugs, assault, sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse or child neglect
- Poor work performance, repeatedly calling in sick at work or chronic tardiness
- Relationship problems, including physical abuse and domestic violence
- Inattention to personal hygiene and dress
- Spending more time in activities involving alcohol or drugs
Any of these warning signs may have other causes. A combination of several warning signs, however, could indicate a problem with drugs or alcohol. If untreated, substance abuse can lead to serious medical problems, family conflicts, loss of friendships, problems at work or even mental health issues.
Strategies to avoid substance abuse
To keep yourself, or someone you know from falling victim to substance abuse:
- Know the symptoms.
- Use healthy coping strategies to deal with stress or to relax.
- Seek help from a supervisor or a mental health professional.
If you are a leader and believe someone in the group suffers from substance abuse:
- Be proactive and don't wait until there is a significant problem within the unit.
- Keep an open dialogue with junior service members about substance use, abuse and dependence.
- Promote healthy alternatives to coping with stress and an open, non-judgmental environment that encourages service members to get help when they need it before problems become unmanageable.
Recognizing a problem
If you feel you have a problem, seek professional help. This is not to suggest that you have failed in any way. In fact, getting help can be the key to getting better and being able to return more fully and more effectively to leadership and work roles.
Treatment for substance abuse
A formal assessment of the substance abuse problem is the first step in treatment. A trained substance abuse professional can make the assessment. Ask your doctor for a referral.
You can also find support through Alcoholics Anonymous, detox programs, outpatient or residential programs, and halfway houses. Other programs offer support to the friends and families of substance abusers, such as Al-Anon and Alateen. To find a program near you, call the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information hotline at 800-729-6686 or contact Military OneSource.