Alcohol Abuse Is A Major Issue For America's Military

By Jesse Higins

Among the struggles US soldiers contend with, there is one enemy that is steadily gaining on them. Alcohol abuse has reached an all time high in the US military. For nearly 20 years, reports have shown that alcohol abuse within the ranks has grown, despite attempts by officials to curtail consumption. Studies have shown that soldiers 18 to 25 are more likely to drink than civilians the same age.

Officials blame stress as the cause behind the military's alcohol abuse problem, just as it is commonly the root of the problem for non military drinkers. The stress soldiers, face however, is much different than what citizens' face.

Soldiers face rigorous physical and mental training to prepare them for duty. It's designed to make them tough and able to handle any situation they might face at peace and war time.

This training places tremendous pressure on the soldiers to perform. As a result, the soldiers may find it hard to find a balance when off duty. It is sometimes difficult to turn off their military training and act accordingly in a civilian atmosphere. This is even more difficult in times of war, when soldiers return home on leave from being in combat.

Female soldiers face added pressures while serving in the military. They must perform their duties as expected and may also feel the need to "prove" themselves in what has been traditionally a male occupation.

This kind of tension can make a tough job even tougher. Some female officers also have to deal with sexual harassment.

The Army has recognized the on-going alcohol abuse problem within its ranks and has taken steps to reduce the numbers of those afflicted. Military officials know that when a soldier is an alcoholic it affects their performance and can endanger others.

The military doesn't benefit from having soldiers that are not up to par, whether from illness or injury. The list of negatives associated with alcohol abuses is long. Studies indicate that soldiers with drinking problems are more likely to abuse their partners and cause problems in the workplace.

About the Author:

0 komentar:

Posting Komentar

Recent Post

Visitor