Marine personnel are most susceptible to alcohol and drug addiction and this is why the Marine Corp. intends to wisely address the out of control problem of drug addiction before it begins. Recruiters administer a drug-screening test on new potential recruits before they are processed for enlistment. This is a timesaving process since new applicants would anyways be eliminated when they take the official comprehensive drug test.
The Marine Corp. is most stringent of all branches of the military when it comes to the tolerance for drug abuse. A candidate is tested for marijuana and other types of drugs. He’s placed on hold for 45 days if determined to have taken illegal drugs in the past.
The marines have over 200 counselors and other professionals scheduled to train the individuals who get addicted after entering the Corps. Now that addicts are thought to have a chronic disease, there is no embarrassment connected to looking for help to overcome it.
Veterans may receive drug rehabilitation if they have a disability connected to active duty. SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Services Administration) has a website which explains how to apply for a treatment. Personal responsibility is emphasized and 12-step programs are used at majority of the Substance Abuse Rehabs for Marines Personnel. Addicts are kept as inpatients for indeterminate lengths of time depending on their specific needs and medical condition. All parties concerned realize the serious implications of drug use and how it may affect the judgment of marines on active duty.
An official order (Marine Corps Order 53 55.4) was handed down from the Commandant of the Marine Corps. It mandates distribution of official rules set up by The Marine Corps Community Drug Education Assistance Program to publish and support the nation’s war on drugs. It is ordered that the Department of Defense take a leading role in combat efforts against illegal drugs. There are several Substance Abuse Rehabs for Marines Personnel which have an integrated detoxification program. They provide outpatient care and what is called partial hospitalization or day treatment. Payment is through military insurance or Tricare Insurance.
The final objective of the Marine Corps is to eliminate alcohol abuse, which has become so inculcated in our society and is always readily available. The factors which might lead the recruit to alcoholism include family conflict, family history of drinking, money problems, boredom, poor work ethics, poor work performance, low self-esteem, and easy availability of alcoholic beverages. Even when help is available, recruits may not be willing to use it due to the stigma attached to public admission of being an alcoholic. This may have a negative effect on his career; however, not getting treatment at one of the rehab facilities may lead to eventual dishonorable discharge. With treatment at a reputed substance abuse rehab for Marines personnel there is hope of continuing in the Marines with eventual honorable discharge or a continuing career serving the country.
