Take Control of Your Stress

Challenges and tough times impact everyone, and Marines face some unique challenges throughout their careers. But using alcohol to cope can lead to serious problems, including addiction, health issues, and damaged relationships. 

Marines consistently report the highest rates of binge drinking and heavy drinking across the Department of Defense. Alcohol misuse can lead to disciplinary action, lost promotions, and even discharge. When we experience difficult events, our bodies respond in ways that can be helpful short-term but harmful long-term. Take a Marine Corps Total Fitness approach to enhance healthy coping skills, so you’re ready and resilient when stress levels peak.  

Social Fitness 

Building strong, supportive relationships, seeking help from trusted friends or groups, and engaging in activities that do not involve alcohol can reduce isolation and promote emotional well-being. 

Spiritual Fitness 

Meditation, prayer, mindfulness, and connecting with a higher purpose or community can help foster inner peace, resilience, and a sense of meaning. 

Mental Fitness 

Grounding techniques, mindfulness, exercise, counseling, healthy routines, breathing exercises, and self-compassion can help decrease reliance on substances and increase wellness. 

Physical Fitness 

Regular exercise such as strength training, cardio, yoga, and walking help improve mood, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. 

OSCAR Team Members play a crucial role in identifying stress early in their unit, connecting peers to additional help when needed, and providing support across the stress continuum.  

The Substance Assessment and Counseling Program (SACP) provides non-medical substance misuse services for Marines and attached service members and assists with referrals as needed. 

Don't let stress, adversity, and alcohol misuse control your life. Reach out today. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.