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Prevent alcohol abuse before it's a problem

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Samantha Krolikowski
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Each year Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment sees roughly 75 Airmen, mostly ages 18 to 24 years old, for alcohol related incidents. On average, 11 of those have a Driving Under the Influence referral. In support of the Air Force's goal to have zero alcohol related mishaps, ADAPT is here to provide information to prevent alcohol related incidents and assist those who need help.

One of the ways ADAPT tries to prevent alcohol related incidents is by visiting squadrons and educating the Airmen on how to receive help if needed. If an Airman is in need of a higher level of care, ADAPT will refer them to a civilian facility to accommodate their needs.

"We offer Airmen information, resources and treatment so their career and home life isn't negatively impacted later on," said Senior Airman Andres Gutierrez Gonzalez, a 92nd Medical Operations Squadron ADAPT technician. "If there's an incident, or if someone feels they need help, we will have them come in and set them up with the correct resources."

A mild diagnosis consists of in-house treatment at ADAPT where they teach skills to help prevent any further risky alcohol related behavior. If an individual is diagnosed with a serious drinking problem, they will be seen by ADAPT for no less than six months or until the Airman is no longer reliant on alcohol. The individual may be sent to a civilian facility to accommodate their needs.

According to Gutierrez Gonzalez, people should be aware of their surroundings as alcohol affects everyone differently, "so know how it affects you," he said. "It is also important to know if an Airman has a problem."

Some signs of alcohol abuse include: bloodshot eyes, being frequently late to work, relationship problems, decrease in work performance, smell of alcohol or noticing if an individual is drinking more than normal.

"Long term effects of alcohol can cause problems to the liver, pancreas, digestive system and can weaken the immune system," Gutierrez Gonzalez said. "Airmen should drink responsibly not only to avoid hurting their career, but to be able to remain safe and healthy throughout life."

For more information on alcohol prevention or if squadron leadership is interested in having an ADAPT representative brief their unit, call ADAPT at (509) 247-2731.