ALCOAST 130/21 - APR 2021 ALCOHOL AWARENESS MONTH: “STAYING SAFE”

R 011100Z APR 21
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 130/21
SSIC 6200
SUBJ:  ALCOHOL AWARENESS MONTH: “STAYING SAFE”
A. Coast Guard Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Manual,
COMDTINST M6320.5 (series)
1. Alcohol Awareness Month is a national public health campaign
to raise awareness of the causes, impacts, and treatment of
alcohol disorders, and takes place during the month of April
each year. Our theme, “Staying Safe,” is important now more
than ever.
2. This time last year, COVID changed everything, from how
to properly wash our hands, to how we shop, work, and school
our children. While the pandemic has effected everyone, some
have been impacted more than others. Social distancing and
working from home have produced social and emotional isolation
for many. Studies show that those who experience loneliness,
anxiety, sadness, and depression are at greater risk for
increased alcohol use and abuse. According to the Centers
for Disease Control, there has been a sharp increase in
alcohol sales throughout the pandemic. In addition to
increased alcohol consumption, there has also been a rise
in opioid deaths and nicotine use.
3. If you or a loved one are struggling with the effects of
isolation and or alcohol use, you are not alone. There are
programs and resources available and steps you can take now
to help in “Staying Safe.”
4. Understanding and using the National Institute of Alcohol
Abuse and Alcoholism’s “Low Risk Drinking Guidelines”
(Zero, One, Two, and Three) can aid in “Staying Safe” this
year. These low risk drinking guidelines have been adopted
by the Coast Guard, and are defined in REF (A) as:
   a. ZERO - there are occasions where “zero” drinks is the
only low-risk option; such as, when driving, using machinery,
cleaning a weapon, pregnant, on duty, or on certain medications;
   b. ONE - consume no more than one “standard alcoholic
beverage” per hour;
   c. TWO - consume no more than two standard drinks per
occasion and;
   d. THREE - never exceed three drinks per occasion.
5. Visit DoD’s ownyourownlimits.org to explore education
materials, self-assessments, risk calculators, and responsible
drinking tools designed to help you remain in control and stay
safe. Another excellent and comprehensive resource can be found
at National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism’s website:
https://www.rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/.
6. Reach out to your local Command Drug and Alcohol Representative
(CDAR) to discuss responsible drinking, the benefits of screening,
and referral options. 
7. Commanding Officers and assigned CDARs are encouraged to hold
their mandated annual Unit Substance Abuse Prevention Training
during the month of April and distribute education materials
throughout the month. Substance Abuse Prevention Specialists are
available to CDARs within their respective Districts and will be
reaching out to provide standardized training and offer assistance
with planning unit prevention activities. 
8. Questions concerning these topics should be directed to
Mr. Mark Mattiko, 202-247-6824 or Mark.J.Mattiko@uscg.mil
or CWO Mary Davenport 757-628-4369 or Mary.G.Davenport@uscg.mil.
9. CDR Jeremy R. Denning, Acting Director, Health, Safety, and
Work-Life (CG-11), sends.
10. Internet release is authorized.