ALCOAST 409/18 - DEC 2018 MANAGING HOLIDAY STRESS

R 061547 DEC 18
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC//CG-11//
TO ALCOAST
UNCLAS //N01754//
ALCOAST 409/18
COMDTNOTE 1754
SUBJ:  MANAGING HOLIDAY STRESS
1. The holidays are a time for rest and relaxation, but they can also be associated
with increased stress. Sometimes stress can be good. It can help you develop
skills needed to manage potentially threatening situations. Stress can be harmful,
however, when it is prolonged or severe enough to make you feel overwhelmed and out
of control.
2. Common reactions to a stressful event include tension and irritability, anger,
sadness, sleep problems, trouble concentrating, difficulty making decisions, and
increased use of drugs and alcohol.
3. Regrettably some people use alcohol as a solution to manage their stress, but
this will only complicate the situation. When consuming alcohol, please remember
the 0,1,2,3, model:
   a. There are occasions where zero drinks is the low-risk option; such as when
driving, using any form of machinery, taking medication, or when you have a health
condition such as pregnancy.
   b. Consuming no more than one standard alcoholic beverage per hour.
   c. Consuming two standard alcoholic beverages per occasion and never exceeding
three standard alcoholic beverages.
4. The best ways to manage stress are through self-care.
   a. Take care of yourself. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Exercise regularly.
Get plenty of sleep. Give yourself a break. Maintain a normal routine.
   b. Connect socially. Spend time with your loved ones.
   c. Find support. Seek help from a partner, family member, friend, counselor or
clergy person. Additional support is available, by contacting CGSUPRT at 1-855-247-
8778, or at: https://www.cgsuprt.com. You can also contact one of the Health, Safety
and Work-Life (HSWL) representatives found on the HSWL website
at: http://www.dcms.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/Assistant-Commandant-for-Human-Resources-
CG-1/Health-Safety-and-Work-Life-CG-11/Office-of-Work-Life-CG-111/. Services are available
to active duty members, selected reservists, civilian employees, and family members.
5. For questions concerning this ALCOAST, please contact Mr. Tim Merrell, Health Promotion
Program Manager at (202) 475-5146 or Timothy.M.Merrell@uscg.mil.
6. RADM Erica G. Schwartz, Director Health, Safety, and Work-Life, sends.
7. Internet release is authorized.