I Am Ready to Take Control
Have you noticed that your alcohol tolerance is higher than before? Or that maybe you can’t focus on your duties the next day after drinking? Observing changes in your relationship with alcohol is a great first step in taking back control and further choosing to seek support of any kind demonstrates that you want to put yourself first. Connect with your local ASAP office to learn more about their services and all the options available to you.
Question & Answer
What is a Military Treatment Facility?
- A Military Treatment Facility is a fixed facility of the Department of Defense used primarily for health care, including dental care, and any other location designated for providing health care services. Many MTFs have resources to assist you if you are having difficulty coping. Contact your Primary Care Manager or the Department of Behavioral Health at your local MTF to inquire about services.
What are On-Post Non-Medical Counseling Services?
- Many Army posts have non-medical counseling and assistance available to help you such as, Family Life Chaplains, Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs), Exceptional Family Member Program Resource Navigators, and other resources. Contact your local on-post resources to inquire about services.
What is Voluntary Treatment?
- According to the Army Directive 2019-12 Policy for Voluntary Alcohol-Related Behavioral Healthcare, if you do not meet the conditions of Mandatory Substance Abuse Treatment but fit certain criteria for an Alcohol-Related Behavioral Healthcare condition, you may choose to receive voluntary treatment. An evaluation determined by a behavioral healthcare provider will set the criteria.
What are the Benefits of Volunteering for Treatment?
- The benefits to volunteering for treatment not only improves your health and lifestyle but also puts your career back on the right track. As a volunteered Soldier seeking behavioral healthcare, if you fit the criteria and maintain it throughout your voluntary treatment, your commander is not notified of you receiving voluntary care. If you decide to discontinue treatment, it is not considered a rehab failure and cannot be used for reason to discharge. It is your choice to volunteer, benefit from the Army program, and be on target for a brighter future.
What does Living a Sober Lifestyle Mean?
- Living a sober lifestyle goes beyond simply abstaining from alcohol and drugs; it's about prioritizing health, well-being, and personal growth through conscious choices and healthy habits. Choosing this lifestyle can open the door to many things, including improved relationships, better memory and health, more time, money and a longer, meaningful life.
What are Tips for Living a Sober Lifestyle?
- Increase your exercise.
- Find a go-to food or drink to replace alcohol/substances.
- Build your social circle with sober friends.
- Reward yourself when you resist the temptation to drink or use.
- Get adequate sleep (at least 7-8 hours).
- Cook healthy meals at home.
- Develop and practice how to say “no, thank you” with confidence.
- Explore other social activities that don’t involve alcohol or substances.
- Fill your time with a healthier activity when you would typically drink or use.
- Celebrate the little victories. A day, a week, a month, a year, a decade without alcohol or substances is a huge accomplishment
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 988, then press 1, or access online chat by texting 838255.
ASAP Snapshot
Additional Resources
CDC Articles and Guides
DPRR Blog, Podcasts and Webinars
Military OneSource Articles & Guides
Resilience in Focus Series
- This series of tools and infographics cover common challenges like how to make stress work for you, become more optimistic, cultivate mindfulness and stick to your goals. Explore the offerings of the series.