ALCOAST 467/23 - NOV 2023 THE 2023 HOLIDAY SEASON

R 221620Z NOV 23 MID120000644008U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 467/23
SSIC 6200
SUBJ: THE 2023 HOLIDAY SEASON
A. Coast Guard Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Manual,
COMDTINST M6320.5
1. The 2023 winter holiday season is quickly approaching. Although
COVID variants and other seasonal illnesses continue to circulate,
vaccinations and boosters are available and may help many
Coast Guard members and civilians to safely gather with friends
and family for the holiday celebrations.
2. As we know, the holidays are not a universally happy time of the
year, and memories from the past may stir a variety of emotions. We
encourage you to tune in to your own health and wellness and that of
your loved ones. Be aware of prolonged feelings of irritability,
anger, sadness, difficulty sleeping, trouble concentrating,
increased use of alcohol, or difficulty making decisions in
yourself, your children, family, friends, and shipmates.
3. The best way to manage stress, find peace, and experience moments
of joy is through active self-care. Maintain your resilience by
eating a healthy, well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, and
getting restful sleep. Exercise caution with alcohol consumption.
If you decide to drink, adhere to the low-risk guidelines outlined
by the USCG--refer to REF (A). Additionally, REF (A) offers
guidance on promoting, teaching, and supporting these low-risk
guidelines.
4. Find support from a partner, family member, friend, counselor,
online group, or clergy person. Be deliberate about connecting
socially by spending time with friends and loved ones, in person
or virtually. Understand that you may experience sadness or a sense
of loss, and that connecting with others can remind us that we are
not alone. Be mindful of and look after your shipmates, especially
those that may be displaced from their homes for the holidays.
5. As we approach the holidays, it is important to make smart
"money" decisions to avoid overspending. Remember to plan and
budget for holiday expenses and resist the temptation to splurge
on gifts, sales, or special events. Take time each day to practice
gratitude by focusing on all that you are thankful for and think
of creative ways to honor traditions. Keep your celebrations simple.
Do not put added pressure on yourself to host or travel to large
elaborate events. Consider budget-friendly gifting and entertaining
to reduce added financial stress during this holiday season.
6. If you find yourself or a loved one having trouble this holiday
season, support is always available. CG SUPRT offers a variety of
services, including free and confidential supportive counseling,
and is available 24/7/365 by calling 1-855-247-8778 (International:
Enter your international code +855-247-8778). You can also contact
one of the Health, Safety and Work-Life (HSWL) representatives
found on the HSWL website at:
(Copy and Paste URL Below Into Browser)

https://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/

    a. These services are available to active-duty members, select
reservists, civilian employees, and family members. Another resource
comes from the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, where individuals
can learn about the disease of addiction, how it impacts families,
and healthy ways of coping. To learn more about the free Family
Program, visit:
(Copy and Paste URL Below Into Browser)

https://www.hazeldenbettyford.org/treatment/family-children/
family-program

    b. Finally, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be
reached at 988 or:
(Copy and Paste URL Below Into Browser)

https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

    c. Support is always available - do not hesitate to ask for help.
The Coast Guard does not endorse or support any particular service
or provider mentioned in this ALCOAST and lists them for educational
purposes only.
7. For questions concerning this ALCOAST, or concerns about holiday
stress, please contact Mr. Tim Merrell, Health Promotion Program
Manager at (202) 475-5146 or Timothy.M.Merrell@uscg.mil, or
Mr. Jose Jasso, Employee Assistance Program Manager at
Jose.R.Jasso@uscg.mil.
8. RADM Dana L. Thomas, Assistant Commandant for Health, Safety,
and Work-Life (CG-1K), sends.
9. Internet release is authorized.