ADAPT Calls the Community to “Spring into ACTion” to Encourage Responsible Drinking Published April 22, 2009 KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- To recognize the serious problem of alcohol abuse, America designated April as Alcohol Awareness Month. In addition and in keeping with other U.S. national observances, Kadena's Integrated Delivery System, or helping agencies, highlight April as Child Abuse Prevention, Month of the Military Child, and Sexual Assault Awareness Month. "Working collaboratively under the collective theme, 'Spring into ACTion - Awareness, Commitment, and Transformation,' demonstrates Team Kadena's enduring spirit of life and value of community, and public service," said Jaime Shachter, Family Member Program Flight chief. The Kadena Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program encourages all to "Spring into ACTion" and make responsible choices about alcohol use. "Use the information below to increase your awareness of your drinking behavior and assess yourself for signs of problem drinking," said Capt. Aron Potter, 18th Medical Group clinical psychologist. "Commit to these responsible alcohol use recommendations and if you think a problem exists Transform yourself and cut-down. If you can't do it alone, help is just a phone call away. The Team Kadena community depends on you to prevent alcohol misuse and alcohol related incidents that have an adverse affect on our vital mission." Awareness - Signs of Problem Drinking · Your drinking worries your family. · You've tried to cut down but couldn't. · You often drink more than intended or over a longer period of time than intended. · You feel guilty about your drinking. · You often forget what you did while you're drinking. · You drink more to stop a headache or "hangover." · It takes more and more alcohol to feel the effects. · You hide your drinking from family/friends. · You give up planned activities because you'd rather drink alcohol. · You use alcohol despite a health condition. · You miss work or duty because of your drinking; i.e. still feeling the alcohol or hung-over. · Recurrent alcohol related incidents; i.e. DUI/DWI, drunk and disorderly, family violence while using alcohol. Commitment - Responsible Alcohol Use Recommendations · Consume no more than three drinks per day, maximum of nine drinks per week. · You should not drink alcohol if you may become pregnant or are pregnant, plan to drive or operate machinery, taking prescription medications that can interact with alcohol · Never drink alcohol if you're in conflict with a spouse/family member. It can impair your ability to peacefully resolve the situation and further strain the relationship. · Don't drink alcohol when you're feeling depressed, anxious, or angry. Alcohol is a Depressant and may only offer temporary relief. After use, it can intensify anxiety, anger, and/or depression. · Don't drink alcohol to help get restful sleep. Alcohol may help you fall asleep because of its sedating properties, but sleep will often be restless. As the alcohol leaves your system you are likely to wake up before you intend and have difficulty falling back asleep. · Only drink alcohol with people you know and trust. · If you plan to drink, plan ahead. Transformation - How to Cut Down · Consider how much, when, and with whom you drink. · Plan non-drinking activities for yourself and your family/friends. · Dump out the alcohol at your home. · Sip your drinks. · Drink alcohol while eating and alternate alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages. · Minimize temptations: stay away from people and places you normally associate with drinking. · Stay active. Think about what to do instead of drink alcohol. For example, go for a walk. · Make your goal of "cutting down" known to your family and friends. They can help you stay on track. · Write down your life goals and see if drinking alcohol will help you achieve them. · Remember that every time you are tempted to drink and resist, you are breaking the habit. · Don't give up if you slip! How to Get Help · Air Force (ADAPT), 634-1266 · ARMY (ASAP), 644-4112 · NAVY/Marine (SARD), 643-7722 · Alcoholics Anonymous, 12stepokinawa.com Other Resources · Airman Against Drunk Driving (AADD), 634-2233 The 18th Force Support Squadron kicks of April's awareness activities with the Spring into Action 5K Fun Run/Stroller Walk Saturday, at 7 a.m. at the Risner Fitness Center. Later Saturday afternoon, 18 FSS will host Springfest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Marek Park filled with games, entertainment, food, prizes, and photos with the Easter Bunny in a carnival-like atmosphere. IDS agencies will shift the focus to sexual assault awareness and host the Empowered Women Self-Defense Training for ladies ages 16 through adult at the Risner Fitness Center April 18 from 9 a.m. to noon. Morale, Welfare, and Recreation will close out the month with the Torii Beach Grand Opening focused on fun for Airman and families April 25 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Additionally, the Kadena Child Development Centers and Youth Programs will provide opportunities to highlight and celebrate military children throughout the month. Representatives from the IDS helping agencies will be available at these and other events with resources, information and giveaways to foster Team Kadena's awareness, commitment, and transformation for the health, wellness, and safety of our community.