PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. - Picatinny Arsenal held a panel discussion on the impact of alcohol and substance use disorder on April 11. The event, held in the installation’s Lindner Conference Center, was part of the installation’s observance of National Alcohol Awareness Month in April.
The annual campaign is aimed at enhancing understanding of the dangers of alcohol misuse. Alcohol Awareness Month provides an opportunity for Army substance abuse experts, public health advocates and leaders to increase their efforts to reach people who may not fully appreciate the dangers of unhealthy alcohol consumption.
The event brought together a panel with various backgrounds and experiences, including law enforcement, therapists, recovering addicts, and operations security specialists who discussed the reporting procedures to maintain security clearances.
The public health program, organized in April 1987, has become a national movement to draw more attention to the causes and effects of alcoholism, as well as how to help families and communities deal with drinking problems.
Recognizing the warning signs of alcohol abuse and receiving proper treatment can make a significant impact with the recovery process.
"This month, we're focusing on educating and supporting individuals who may find themselves on the slippery slope of alcohol misuse disorder," said Amy Gopel, Picatinny Arsenal's Army Substance Abuse Program Manager and Employee Assistance Program Coordinator.
"The journey from occasionally overstepping boundaries to finding oneself struggling with alcohol can be quick and unexpected,” she added. “If you or the life of someone you love feels unmanageable, if making responsible choices seems more difficult than it should be, it's important to understand that these challenges often go hand in hand with a greater risk of substance misuse."
Army Regulation 600-85, The Army Substance Abuse Program, governs the Army Substance Abuse Program.
Picatinny's Army Substance Abuse Program officially opened the doors to a new Picatinny Arsenal CARES (Community Awareness Resiliency Education Support) Team (PACT) Wellness Center during a resiliency fair held in coordination with Red Ribbon Week in October 2022.
PACT was created to assist in achieving personal well-being by providing a location for multi-use support services. PACT is focused on community, awareness, resiliency, education support and prevention to increase positive patterns that support healthy lifestyle choices.
"Our aim is to delve into the emotions, processes, and impacts associated with alcohol and substance use disorder (professionally and personally), shedding light on these critical issues that affect individuals we care about deeply," Gopel said.
Employees who believe they may have an addiction problem should contact Gopel at 973-724-4357 or for a referral. All screenings are confidential.
Social Sharing