Substance Abuse and Addiction – The Essentials

Understanding and identifying a substance use problem can be the beginning of a better life. Learn how to identify the warning signs of substance use disorders and addictive behavior and where to get help. If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 800-273-8255, then press 1, or access online chat by texting 838255.

Identify, treat and prevent a substance use or addiction disorder with these steps:

Recognize signs of alcohol and prescription drug use.

A person can become dependent on drugs or alcohol gradually or over a short period of time. Some warning signs include decreased energy, unexplained injuries, irritability, financial difficulties, poor work performance, relationship problems and poor personal hygiene.

Relevant articles:

• Understanding and Identifying Substance Use Disorders

Relevant resources:

• Veterans Affairs Services: Substance Abuse Programs

• Marine Corps Substance Abuse Program

• Navy Alcohol Abuse Prevention

• Air Force Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program

Understand addictive behavior.

Addiction doesn’t always have to involve a substance. Sometimes a destructive habit or behavior can become a dependency. Common types of addictive behavior include codependency, internet addiction, compulsive eating, sex addiction, workaholism, compulsive gambling and shopaholism.

Relevant articles:

• Talking to Your Teen About Substance Abuse

• SAMHSA Resources for Families Coping With Mental and Substance Use Disorders

Relevant resources:

• TRICARE alcohol awareness

• TRICARE tobacco cessation

Use strategies to prevent substance use disorders.

The best way to avoid substance use disorders is to recognize that a problem is forming and address it immediately. Be observant and proactive. Try to adopt healthy alternatives for coping with stress and be assertive about confronting a loved one about problematic behavior as soon as you see it.

Understand treatment and recovery options.

Depending on the type of addiction, there are different options for getting the help you need. Each service branch has a substance use program. Treatment for military family members struggling with addiction is covered under TRICARE. Eluna hosts free traditional camp activities and mentoring support for children at Camp Mariposa. You can also find help through 12-step support groups. To find a program near you, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 800-662-4357 or find treatment centers online.

Relevant articles:

• Military Policy and Treatment for Substance Use

Relevant resources:

• SAMHSA Behavorial Health Treatment Services Locator

• TRICARE

• Eluna