MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif., -- Alcoholism is a disease that can develop due to life patterns or as a coping mechanism for depression or stress, and although alcoholics can stop drinking, alcoholism is an incurable, chronic disease.

Because of this, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency declared April as Alcohol Awareness Month in 1987. The organization says on their Web site they hope to help the more than 60 million Americans suffering from alcoholism to understand their disease and how to deal with it.

“Alcoholics usually isolate themselves, and put drinking in front of their careers, families and personal needs,” said John Cronin, a substance abuse counselor for Marine Corps Community Services here.

To combat this isolation, friends of an alcoholic should confront the drinker, forcing the issue into the open. Also, confronting that person gives them hope, and shows that others care about their well being, added Cronin. Drinking alone, making excuses to drink, declining eating habits and trembling in the mornings are a few indicators of alcoholism.

Aside from the mental and social effects of alcohol, excessive drinking can also cause physical detriment to a heavy drinker. Contrary to popular belief, moderate alcohol consumption offers no medicinal benefits.

“There are no positive sides to drinking alcohol,” said Cronin. “A glass of wine a night can help reduce the risk of heart disease, because it contains grape extract. You can get the same result from drinking grape juice.”

Drinking also causes severe dehydration, which leads to the headaches associated with hangovers caused by the reduction of fluids between the brain and the skull allowing the brain to become bruised, added Cronin.

Anyone suffering from alcoholism should seek help. The air station offers the Building Alcohol Skills Intervention Curriculum course, designed to explain alcohol and can serve as a forum for discussing alcohol related problems and establishing personal goals. To attend the BASIC course, contact Julie Carlson, the Semper Fit health promotion director. 

Drinkers not comfortable with seeking a counselor or attending courses may also try writing down how much alcohol they consume to raise their awareness. They should also set attainable limits, gradually reducing their intake over time, and use a buddy system so someone holds them accountable for their actions.

TRICARE also covers certain treatments for alcohol abuse, with a referral from a primary care manager. Active-duty service members and family members can call 1-888-874-9378, to find out what benefits are available in their area.

In support of alcohol awareness, April 9 was National Alcohol Screening Day. Screening centers provide free tests to help determine whether or not a person suffers from alcoholism. To find a local screening center, or for information about alcoholism, check the NASD Web site, www.mentalhealthscreening.org