Substance Abuse

As changes occur, problems build and go unresolved, many people turn to alcohol or other unhealthy substances to help ease the stress. This form of self-medicating will lead to other problems. Problematic drinking is one of the greatest challenges we face and it leads to deeper and greater challenges. If you or a loved one abuses alcohol, seek resources sooner, NOT LATER. If a Servicemember or family member needs support to address their substance abuse problem, they should know that there are many resources available.

Alcohol Abuse

When Servicemembers are deployed, their access to alcohol is limited, and they may feel the desire to party hard upon returning home. When you drink, have a battle plan to moderate your drinking:

When is alcohol use abuse?

• Is drinking making your home life unhappy?
• Is a loved one concerned about your drinking?
• Is drinking affecting your reputation?
• Have you ever felt remorse after drinking?
• Have you had financial difficulties as a result of drinking?
• Does your drinking make you careless of your family’s welfare?
• Has your ambition decreased since drinking?
• Has your efficiency decreased since drinking?
• Do you drink to escape from worries or troubles?
• Do you drink alone or lie about your drinking?
• Have you ever had a loss of memory as a result of drinking?

If you answered yes to 3 or more of these questions, you may need to seek professional help.

Resources Available

Alcoholics Anonymous

If you or someone else notices you are abusing alcohol, Alcoholic Anonymous is an organization with meetings in cities all over the United States, dedicated to help people stop drinking. Members are anonymous and only go by first names. Your unit chaplain or leader may be able to help you or your Servicemember get enrolled.

More Info: Website 

Prevention, Treatment, and Outreach Program

The Prevention, Treatment and Outreach program was created by the National Guard Bureau as part of the latest substance abuse program. The PTO program provides a variety of programs to help Servicemembers with alcohol and drug dependencies, mental health needs and training materials to assist in meeting the required awareness training.

The PTO Prevention Coordinator works with community-based treatment providers within the state to find the best and closest treatment center. In many cases, the PC can also find financial assistance for those in need.

Contact: Minnesota National Guard Prevention Coordinator

              SFC Christine Dawson

              651-268-8909

In-Patient Services/Detox - Vets Center, St Cloud Medical Center, In-Patient clinic, M.O.S., Alcoholics Anonymous.

800-ALCOHOL, press "1" to speak with a real person

Alcohol Abuse Hotline

800-ALCOHOL (252-6465)

St. Cloud Area

320-202-1895

Central Lakes Area

218-829-3740

East Iron Range Area

218-749-3387

Duluth Area

218-727-8117

Minneapolis Area

763-781-5102  

952-922-0880

St. Paul Area

651-227-5502

Allina Unity Hospital and Clinics

763-236-5000

Rethinking Drinking
See how you're drinking pattern compares to those of other U.S. adults.

More Info: Website

After Deployment

Useful information for those who think they may have a problem with alcohol or drugs.

More Info: Website

Drug Abuse

You may have experienced some “adrenaline highs” during your deployment. You should not allow yourself to replace those highs with drug abuse. Methamphetamine, cocaine and crack cocaine are very dangerous replacements for the adrenaline high you may have experienced.

Drug use is not only not tolerated in the military, but it is dangerous. If you or someone you suspect is addicted to drugs, Narcotics Anonymous is dedicated to help people stop using. Please visit www.na.org for more information.

Resources Available:

Narcotics Anonymous

Dedicated to help people stop using.

More Info: Website

Drug Abuse Hotline

800-622-HELP (4357)

Military OneSouce - 12 free private counseling sessions

800-342-9647

Military & Family Life Consultants

651-282-4490 / 4288 / 4230

Or by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Minnesota Army Reserve and National Guard point of contact

320-616-3152

For all substance abuse situations

Dial 211

Or, from a cell phone, 651-291-0211