Alcohol abuse means having unhealthy drinking habits, like drinking every day or too much at one time.
When you depend on alcohol to get through the day, you can become an alcoholic.
What are the warning signs of alcohol abuse?
Take the Do You Have a Drinking Problem? quiz from the Network of Care.
Ask yourself these questions:
- 1) Do you often think about using alcohol while doing other activities?
- 2) Have family members or friends expressed concern about your drinking?
- 3) Have you tried to cut back on drinking, but have not been successful?
- 4) Has drinking had a negative effect on your relationships, job, health, or finances?
- 5) Do you need to have a drink in the morning?
- 6) Do you have trouble remembering periods of time or had a blackout and not remember anything that happened while drinking?
- 7) Do you sometimes feel guilty about drinking?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be abusing alcohol and should consider getting help.
With the proper treatment and support, you can overcome an addiction to alcohol.
Alcohol Abuse and the Military
A lot of soldiers turn to alcohol to deal with combat stress. Also, alcohol use is very limited during deployments. Being able to drink again can seem like a reward for their hard work. Some soldiers might also turn to alcohol because it can help numb the stress of dealing with their combat experience. Family members might also use alcohol because deployments and reunions can be a very stressful time.
Alcohol and / or Substance Abuse Education in Jefferson County
The Mental Health Association of Jefferson County and the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Council of Jefferson County has a program called Creating Lasting Family Connections. This free program enhances communication and reduces the risk of alcohol abuse. Call (315) 788-4660 to register.
If you would like education or prevention information about alcohol and substance abuse, the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Council of Jefferson County is a great resource. They partner with Communities that Care which specifically works with youth in the area.
Alcohol and / or Substance Abuse Treatment in Jefferson County
The Army Substance Abuse Program on Fort Drum is a great resource for active duty soldiers to receive education or treatment. The Employee Assistance Program can also help deal with these issues on Fort Drum and can be reached at (315)772-6705. Family members can receive treatment in Jefferson County through the Samaritan Medical Center Addiction Services located at 1575 Washington Street, and can be reached at (315)779-5060.
CREDO Community Center is another treatment center in Jefferson County that offers residential and outpatient services for substance abuse. Currently, they do not accept TRICARE, but military families can pay out-of-pocket to receive services.
Links for General Information about Alcohol Abuse
Network of Care – Alcohol Abuse
National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services
Links for Information about Alcohol Abuse and the Military
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – Veterans Resources
Network of Care – Alcohol and Substance Abuse in PTSD
Sources: Alcohol: Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Warning Signs. Military One Source.
Alcohol and Combat Stress. ETR Associates