NASWI and NHOH Participates in National Screening Day

OAK HARBOR, Wash. - (NNS) -- Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI) and Naval Hospital Oak Harbor (NHOH) held an assessment in several locations on NASWI for Alcohol Awareness and National Screening Day April 11.

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCAAD) sponsors Alcohol Awareness Month to increase public awareness and understanding in order to reduce the stigma that too often prevents individuals and families from seeking help sponsors.

"Alcohol misuse and abuse have a tremendous impact on our Sailors," said Chief Ship's Serviceman Jeffrey Lara, NASWI's drug and alcohol programs advisor. "As the summer approaches, April is a key month to highlight irresponsible use of alcohol, alcohol abuse, and drinking responsibly."

The NCADD celebrates the 27th anniversary of Alcohol Awareness Month with the 2013 theme, "Help for Today. Hope for Tomorrow."

Michelle Smith, NHOH Health Promotion Coordinator, said that self-recognition is the first step in identifying and treating alcohol use disorders. Alcohol abuse can negatively impact physical health or working/family relationships.

"We noticed an increase in alcohol related incidents last year, and we determined that as a community we needed to increase alcohol awareness as well as providing various tools to help our Sailors and their families," Smith said.

Aircrew Survival Equipmentman 2nd Class Richard Brumbaugh, stationed on NASWI, was one of the many Sailors who volunteered in providing an avenue for Sailors and their families to the self-assessment.

"I'm hoping I can make a difference in someone's life before it's too late," Brumbaugh said.

Alcohol Awareness Month is recognized every April and was founded in 1987.

For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/nwpacen/.