Resources to Help Service Members and Their Families Prevent Substance Misuse

The resources listed in this section can directly impact the health of an individual Service member and their family. 

Own Your Own Limits Educational Campaign

As one of the few DoD resources included in this toolkit, the Own You Own Limits website fills a gap by providing information about responsible drinking that is tailored to Service members. It offers information about the risks of excessive alcohol use, helpful tools to help estimate blood alcohol concentration, caloric content of drinks, and drink size calculators.

Operation Supplement Safety

The Uniformed Services University launched Operation Supplement Safety to help the military community, leaders, healthcare providers and DoD civilians learn more about dietary supplements and avoid unknowingly consuming prohibited substances. It includes an easy to use calculator to score supplements for safety and conformity. and a host of other resources (including mobile phone apps) that help avoid high risk and prohibited substances. Importantly, it also provides Service members and professionals an opportunity to Ask an Expert questions about supplements. Questions are answered within 3 to 7 days.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline

This National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information.

Substance Use Facility Locator

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is an easy-to-use tool that helps individuals locate state-licensed providers who specialize in treating substance use disorders, addiction, and mental illness. It also provides in-depth information on treatment options, paying for treatment, understanding addiction, and understanding mental health.

CDC Alcohol Resource Page

CDC’s Alcohol Resource page can help Service members learn more about how drinking can affect their health. On this page, Service members can learn more about binge drinking, alcohol and pregnancy, underage drinking, and drinking and driving.

CDC Opioid Treatment and Pain Management Information

This CDC webpage provides information for individuals on a variety of topics including:

• Treatment options for chronic pain management that do not involve prescription opioids and pose fewer risks and side effects.
• Expectations for opioid therapy
• Frequently asked questions about opioids and preventing their misuse.
• Other helpful factsheets and informational materials for both individuals/patients and doctors.

Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous

Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous (AA and NA) are support groups that help those with substance use disorders. Both groups use a 12-step model that provides support, encouragement, and accountability for the individual. AA focuses on alcohol while NA focuses on other types of drug misuse. These support groups are open to anyone who wants to stop using alcohol or other substances and are free and confidential. Support group locaters are included below. It is important to know that not all support groups are listed.

AA Support Group Locator
NA Support Group Locator