Military Veterans of Irag, Afghanistan, and Other Wars

The services on this site are for anyone with a concern about alcohol or drug problems, but we specifically mention military veterans who have been deployed to combat zones because of the fact that so many vets, and their loved ones, may be at high risk to develop drug or alcohol problems as part of their adjustment to a return to civilian or non-combat life.

We know that the military support services for returning vets are overwhelmed. We also are aware that sometimes revealing to the military a drug or alcohol problem can have a negative impact on careers. Therefore, we offer here free information, but also, for a reasonable fee, access to confidential ONLINE help.

For same day answers to questions, click here: http://addictionsamedayanswers.com/AlcoholDrugMilitary.com/
For counseling and support, click here: http://www.alcoholdrugsos.com/.

Indicators of a Drug or Alcohol Problem

Use in the face of adverse consequences is the best rule of thumb in identifying a developing drug or alcohol problem. In other words: does my use of drugs or alcohol cause problems in significant areas of my life, such as relationships or work; do I know that my use causes these problems and do I continue to use anyway? If this scenario fits an individual, chances are that person has a problem and could benefit from help.

Have you been thinking for some time that you should cut down on, or control, your use of drugs or alcohol? If so, then you may have a problem with control over the amount you use, or how often you use, or both. Try one of the free screening tests on this site: http://www.alcoholdrugsos.com/AlcoholDrugSOS_Services.asp#ScreeningTests

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Alcoholism and Depression

Here are my ideas on dual diagnosis, also called comorbidity. 85 to 90 percent of alcoholics, depending on the population, do NOT have a coexisting (or pre-existing) mental health disorder such as depression. Often any depression or anxiety is due to the CNS depressant effects of chronic excessive alcohol use, which will dissipate with a substantial period of abstinence. If an individual has both depression and alcoholism, obviously, if the depression is severe enough to endanger the person through suicide or self-harm, then the depression will need to be stabilized immediately. However, talk therapy or even antidepressant medications for the depression will often NOT be very effective if the alcoholic continues to drink. So, generally, absent danger-to-life issues, the alcoholism should be treated first, that is, the drinking stopped and alcoholism treatment completed. Usually, if the depression is related to the alcoholism, it will not be a problem after 30 days of sobriety and treatment. Check out my website for more information and professional help.
Jan Edward Williams, MS, JD, LCADC
http://www.alcoholdrugsos.com
jwilliams@alcoholdrugsos.com
443-610-3569
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Saturday, July 11, 2009

How Do You treat Alcoholism?

First the alcoholic needs to decide, based on failed attempts to control use and avoid consequences, that he/she can no longer drink successfully. The next step is to find support and treatment. Often the best approach is to seek help from a professional addictions counselor or tretament program and begin attending meetings of the 12 Step Programs, namely Alcoholics Anonymous. Alcohol addiction is very powerful and most individuals need treatment and the support of others who have learned how to stay sober. Check out my website for more information, http://www.alcoholdrugsos.com.
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