Military Pathways launches anonymous online tool to assess alcohol use

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ashley Nicole Taylor
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Military health officials recently launched an anonymous online screening tool for those who think they might have a problem with alcohol consumption.

This user-friendly, web-based tool at militarymentalhealth.org assesses alcohol use levels and allows visitors to access articles, videos and other information on how to cut down on alcohol use.

The site also offers several free downloadable mobile applications from LifeArmor to keep alcohol use in check while on the go.

LifeArmor is organized into four main areas to include learning, assessing, tools for guidance and testimonial videos from members of the military community about their struggle to overcome problems relevant to the topic area.

For Airmen or veterans who are concerned about the image they will present if they decide to go to the Behavioral Health clinic, U.S. Public Health Service Cmdr. Anthony Tranchita, behavioral health flight commander, wants to put their mind at ease.

"The idea is that an alcohol diagnosis is going to harm your career more so than coming forward and getting treatment for it," Tranchita stated. "If you do a self-referral and you don't meet the criteria, we won't tell your chain of command at all."

If doing a personal referral seems too intimidating, there are other avenues to use locally for combatting alcohol abuse.

"Airmen can speak to the chaplain about their issues, and will have that confidentiality," said Tranchita. "Military One Source is also a good resource people can go to."

Militarymentalhealth.org offers guidance on more than just alcohol. Tests and articles are available for mental health, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and anxiety.

"I understand people feel uncomfortable about their issues, but at the same time being able to talk to your supervisor or someone in your chain of command can help you get ahead of the problem," said Tranchita. "But I think if they can talk about their problem ahead of time, then they're much less likely to end up having a real problem down the road. It may be uncomfortable in the short term, but it's better for the long term."

For more information or to set up an appointment, contact the Behavioral Health clinic at 747-4460.