The holiday season is a time for family, celebration and good cheer, but the holidays are often marked by an increase in the 4 S's: substance abuse, sexual assaults, suicide and safety violations.
"Prevention of the 4 S's is everyone's business -- being aware, being proactive, being involved," said Maj. Gen. Charles Flynn, senior commander of U.S. Army, Hawaii. " As we enter the holiday season, everyone needs to be vigilant."
To emphasize this message, USARHAW is launching an awareness campaign called "Don't be a BySTANDer -- Take a STAND! The campaign provides information about how to prevent potentially dangerous behavior during the holidays and beyond. Its ultimate goal is to reduce the 4 S behaviors and create an increased sense of safety and well-being for Soldiers, family members, retirees, veterans and civilians.
Take a STAND! will also recognize those USARHAW members who have taken extra efforts to help prevent a tragedy.
Substance abuse
"Don't drink and drive" and "get a designated driver" have become familiar platitudes, but these messages must be put into action to avoid vehicular and personal injuries.
"People love to have fun over the holidays, but this often leads to excessive drinking, and that can quickly lead to unsafe behaviors," said Johnny Miller, Army Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) prevention coordinator at the Directorate of Human Resources, U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii.
Miller said the ASAP website, at www.garrison.hawaii.army.mil/asap/default.htm, lists classes, programs, clinics, testing and other resources, including support for youth or teenagers. It provides a load of resources to help anyone with alcohol, drug or substance abuse issues.
"Each of us have opportunities to make the right choice in every instance," said Miller.
Sexual assaults
There is a direct connection between substance abuse and sexual harassment and assault.
"The prevention of sexual assault is the Army's top priority," said Lisa Charles, USARHAW SHARP (Sexual Harassment Assault Response and Prevention) program manager. "The holidays bring out the emotions of the season and these -- combined with drinking, feelings of isolation, separation from families, and other challenges -- can lead to sexual harassment and sexual assault issues."
In October, a SHARP Resource Center opened near the U.S. Army Health Clinic-Schofield Barracks and is a one-stop shop with all the resources available to respond to victims and investigate and to prosecute cases of sexual assault, as well as to educate everyone about sexual harassment and the behaviors that can lead to sexual assault.
The Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation provides links to resources at www.himwr.com. (Search for SHARP at the FMWR site).
Suicide
The holidays aren't all joy and cheer for everyone.
"This season can produce loneliness for those who feel isolated from family and friends. We've found suicide attempts rise during this time," said Miller.
Soldiers are familiar with the acronym ACE:
Ask your buddy. Find out if someone is thinking of suicide.
Care for your buddy. Listen, offer hope and don't judge.
Escort your buddy. Take action, don't leave the person alone and escort them to assistance.
The ASAP website provides awareness and prevention information to help prevent suicides. Other resources include Military OneSource (800-342-9647), a Military Family Life Consultant (808-222-7088), a Family Life Chaplain (808-655-6646, North, or 808-833-2413, South), or an Employee Assistance professional (808-655-6047).
Safety violations
"Safety is always a top priority, especially with the festivities of the season," said Bill Maxwell, safety specialist, Directorate of Installation Safety, USAG-HI.
"Keep deep fat fryers away from the house as you prepare your holiday feasts. At home, please pay attention to your holiday lighting. Don't overload circuits or extension cords," he said. "Please be alert when on the road, at the beach, on a hike and with the kids."
Sgt. Maj. Veronica Regalbuti, senior enlisted adviser for the Directorate of Emergency Services, added, "We want everyone to enjoy the holidays with family and friends. This means getting there and back safely. So remember the simple things: Drinking and driving never mix, so have a plan. Buckle up; a seatbelt saved my own brother's life. Avoid driving distractions like cell phone use; don't text and drive. And finally, don't speed; it's better to get there late than to never get there."
Safety is an everyday issue, whether at work, home or play. All must practice safety when driving, socializing or working.
Get more safety details at www.garrison.hawaii.army.mil/safety/default.htm.
A look ahead
In the weeks ahead, Take a STAND! will take a look at each of the 4 S's. The community is encouraged to get involved, to become more aware of symptoms, to take part in events promoting awareness and to lead others to resources available.
"This campaign is simple and straightforward, so every individual should be involved," said Flynn.
"Don't be a bystander; take a stand," added Flynn. "Get involved; don't be afraid to take action. Together we can make a difference."
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