Substance Misuse
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On this page:
Is My Drinking A Problem
Signs of a Drinking Problem
Recognizing patterns takes awareness. Acting on them takes strength. If you recognize any of these patterns in yourself or others, reach out for help.
Changes in Body and Focus
- Needing to drink more to feel the same effect or to cope with stress, or difficulty concentrating.
- Noticeable decline in physical health, recurring hangovers, or trouble staying focused on daily tasks.
Friction in Relationships
- Pulling away from the unit, friends, or family in favor of drinking alone.
- Increased arguments or tension with the people who matter most to you.
Losing Your Way
- Finding yourself making choices that don’t align with the person you want to be.
- A persistent feeling of being “stuck,” losing hope, or feeling like your work lost its meaning.
Substance Misuse Assessment
If you recognize these signs in yourself, a loved one, or friend, connect with a professional for confidential, non-clinical guidance.
Need help now? Support is available 24/7.
- Immediate danger: Call 911
- Crisis line: Dial 988 (press 1) or Chat Online: Veterans Crisis Line or 988 Lifeline
- SAMSHA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
I Don't Know Where To Start
Regain Balance
Use these strategies to stay in control and reduce risks.
Control Your Environment
- Participate in activities that do not involve alcohol. Stick with people you know and trust to honor your choices.
- Practice your "No" before heading out. Avoid peer pressure by ordering a mocktail or non-alcoholic drink.
Set Your Limits
- Aim for no more than three standard drinks per occasion. Stick to beer or wine—they are easier to track than mixed drinks.
- ➤ Beer (5%): 12 oz
- ➤ Wine (12%): 5 oz
- ➤ Liquor (40%): 1.5 oz
- ➤ Malt (7%): 8 oz
Protect Your Why
- Keep your "why" visible on your phone as a consistent reminder of your priorities.
- Choosing environments and people that support your goals rather than testing your determination.
Support Resources
You do not have to regain your balance by doing it alone. Connect with professional support:
- Community Counseling Program
- Family Advocacy Program
- Chaplains
- Military and Family Life Counseling (MFLC)
- OSCAR
- Other resources
Contact your local installation to inquire about services.
Need help now? Support is available 24/7.
- Immediate danger: Call 911
- Crisis line: Dial 988 (press 1) or Chat Online: Veterans Crisis Line or 988 Lifeline
- SAMSHA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
I Need To Talk To Someone Now
Immediate Help and Support
You are not alone. Support is available 24/7.
Call 911
If you're in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis related to substance misuse, please call 911 or your local emergency services number.
SAMSHA National Helpline
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) National Helpline:
1-800-662-4357
988 Lifeline or Veterans Crisis Line
- Call or Text: Dial 988 and Press 1.
- Chat Online: Veterans Crisis Line or 988 Lifeline
- Text: Send a message to 838255 or 988
Unit Support
- Chaplains
- OSCAR Team
- Substance Assessment Coordinator Officer
Military OneSource
Confidential counseling provides service members and their loved ones with resources and support to address a variety of issues and build important skills to tackle life’s challenges.
I Want to Support Someone
Support Others
Your encouragement can be the turning point for a fellow Marine or loved one.
How to Start the Conversation
- Be Direct: Share specific behaviors you’ve noticed and why you are worried.
- Express Care: Ensure the person knows your concern comes from a place of support.
- Offer Support: Offer to go with the person to seek professional care.
Warning Signs of Medication Misuse
The DoD maintains a zero-tolerance policy for illicit substances.
- Unauthorized Use: Taking medication prescribed for someone else.
- Incorrect Dosage: Taking a larger dose or using it longer than prescribed.
- Improper Administration: Crushing, snorting, or injecting medication.
- Unknown Substances: Consuming any substance without knowing its exact contents.
- Expired Medication: Using old or expired prescriptions.
For more information, see SECNAVINST 5300.28F.
Need help now? Support is available 24/7.
- Immediate danger: Call 911
- Crisis line: Dial 988 (press 1) or Chat Online: Veterans Crisis Line or 988 Lifeline
- SAMSHA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
- Military OneSource: 1-800-342-9647
Leaders Resources
Leaders’ Resources
Leaders, you are the first line of defense in maintaining the wellness and readiness of your units. Decisive action is critical in addressing substance misuse and upholding Marine Corps standards.
Foster a Healthy Culture
- Lead by Example: Demonstrate and encourage healthy coping mechanisms for stress, such as exercise and open communication, rather than turning to alcohol.
- De-glamorize Alcohol: Shift the focus away from alcohol at unit events and gatherings.
Know the Warning Signs
- Performance: Unexplained drop in work quality or tardiness.
- Appearance: Decline in personal hygiene or unkempt uniform.
- Behavior: Personality shifts, mood outbursts, or high-risk actions.
Combat Stigma
- Engage with Empathy: When you notice a Marine is struggling, engage with the individual in a supportive and non-judgmental manner, avoiding negative labels.
- Challenge Stereotypes: Actively challenge and correct negative stereotypes or inappropriate comments made about individuals with alcohol-related problems. Understand there are many reasons why a Marine might be struggling with alcohol.
- Promote Self-Referral: Make it known that voluntarily help-seeking is a sign of strength and is designed to be career-safe.
Take Action
- Refer for Screening: Direct the Marine to a Substance Assessment and Counseling Center for professional assessment at the first sign of a problem. The longer you wait, the bigger the problem tends to become.
- Follow Up: Continue to support and check in on the Marine.
Policies & Tools
Policies
- DoDI 1010.04: Establishes enterprise-wide substance misuse policy.
- DoDI 1010.01 & 1010.16: Directs military drug testing programs.
- MCO 5300.17A: Provides policy and procedural requirements for the Substance Assessment and Counseling Program (SACP)
Unit Support
- Substance Assessment Coordinator Officer
- Chaplains
- Embedded Preventive Integrated Capability (EPIC)
- OSCAR Team
- Primary Prevention Integrators (PPI)
Online Resource
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism supports and conducts research on the impact of alcohol use on human health and well-being.