BE PART OF THE SOLUTION: IF YOU DRINK, DRINK RESPONSIBLY!

It might start with casual, social drinking. Then, ever so slowly, heavier drinking with increased tolerance and weekend "binges" become all too common.

The pattern develops for all sorts of reasons, and continues unchecked until it's as if a light snaps on in your head. Something triggers the ability - or the desire - to say, "This is wrong. It's got to stop."

Many CF members have overcome problems with their drinking and now live happier, healthier lives because of it. One member finally accepted that he is an alcoholic because drinking had caused all sorts of personal problems and ultimately led to the break-up of his marriage. He went to a CF Addiction Rehabilitation Centre for substance abuse treatment, completed the program, and became involved in Alcoholics Anonymous, which provided a source of continued support in his efforts at remaining sober. Now, 10 years later, he is a different person because of it.

Another member came to a similar, abrupt realization. Partying and a real attitude problem led to difficulties in her job performance. A fellow member had the strength to confront the issue and confront her with the reality that her drinking was causing problems. Fortunately, she had the strength to say, "Yes." And the turnaround began.

The Health & Lifestyle Information Survey 2000 indicated that most CF members are moderate consumers of alcohol. Consistent with the general population, CF men are more frequent drinkers than women in all age categories. The survey found that a small proportion of CF members exhibit signs of problem drinking with just over one in ten scoring in the "high risk" or harmful range on the World Health Organization AUDIT scale.

From a personal health standpoint, heavy drinking is very troubling. Individuals who have more than two drinks a day or go on occasional binges risk physiological damage. Excessive drinking can cause ulcers, liver damage, neurological disorders, cancer (of the mouth, larynx, and esophagus), and malnutrition.

What leads to irresponsible or problem drinking? One member says it was partly the macho thing for him. "You're rough. You're tough. You're John Wayne," as he so aptly put it. Another member said, long periods of separation from his family when his children were young, was a factor. A third says cost and availability played a part. "With the price of alcohol on the base," he remembers, "a dollar could go a long way."

These members are all forever grateful for the help they received from the CF to treat and help them manage their problem. Whether through educational sessions organized under the Strengthening The Forces Program, an opportunity to speak individually with medical personnel, or the Addiction Rehabilitation Program, there's something for anyone who is concerned about his or her approach to alcohol and has a genuine desire to change it.

There are other ways to make sure little problems don't become big ones. "There's more to the military than the mess life," says one recovering 25-year member who overcame problems with alcohol. "With sports, various crafts, and other activities, there are many positive things you can do." At more and more social functions, soft drinks and non-alcoholic punches are available, making it easier to make the healthy choice. And as one member said, "If you're out socializing, you don't have to be the last one to go home."

All members can help by drinking responsibly, being careful not to drink and drive, and providing support to other members who need help. The choice is yours! Be part of the solution!

FOR INFORMATION:

Call: DCOS FHP/STF (613) 945-6707