Day brings awareness of alcohol use

  • Published
  • By Sarah Olaciregui
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  As spring turns into summer, lots of people take advantage of the warmer temperatures to hold cookouts, barbecues and parties. Many times, these festivities include alcohol.

To remind Hanscom personnel to drink responsibly and be good wingmen, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment (ADAPT), along with the Family Advocacy and the Drug, Demand and Reduction programs are hosting Alcohol Awareness Day May 26.

Representatives from each organization will be located in the Brown Building and 66th Medical Squadron clinic from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to hand out pamphlets, give information and educate people about alcohol abuse.

"We want this day to be a way of educating people about alcohol abuse or give them tips for cutting down on drinking," said Janet Lawrence, ADAPT program manager. "We also encourage non-drinkers to stop by the table and pick up information so they may know how to help a friend in need."

In addition to pamphlets and information, representatives will also offer screenings, or questionnaires.

"The screenings are completely anonymous," Ms. Lawrence said. "It's not to diagnose, but to inform people about where they stand when it comes to drinking."

After taking the assessment, participants will be given a chance to discuss the results with a clinician and, if needed, referral information will be provided.

Officials say there has been a rise in alcohol abuse incidents on base, so the awareness day will help to remind personnel to think before they drink.

"Before going to a function where alcohol will be present, know who you're around and make a plan," said Ms. Lawrence. "Know you have a responsibility to each other."

Although this is the first year Hanscom is holding this type of event, Alcohol Awareness Day has been taking place at military installations world-wide since 1999.

Since 2006, the Department of Defense has partnered with Screening for Mental Health to provide a special version of the program designed to address the unique stressors facing military affected by deployments and frequent moves.

"This program is provided to help these individuals take care of themselves and their families by learning the signs and symptoms associated with an alcohol use disorder and when to talk with a clinician about them," states an Alcohol Awareness Day information sheet.

All Hanscom personnel are encouraged to stop by the Brown Building or clinic throughout the day on May 26. For further information, call 781-377-4791.