AN APPROACH TO ALCOHOLISM IN THE MILITARY SERVICE
LOUIS JOLYON WEST USAF (MC)1, and
WILLIAM H. SWEGAN USAF2
1 Professor and head, department of psychiatry and neurology, University of Oklahoma School of Medicine, Oklahoma City; Chief, Neuropsychiatry Service, 3700th USAF Hospital, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Tex.
2 Psychiatric social worker and NCO in charge of alcohol project, 3700th USAF Hospital, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Tex.
The problem of alcoholism in the military service is briefly reviewed. An experimental program in rehabilitation is described, and the results in 50 cases discussed. These results indicate that the program has been of value. The experience of the workers in this program provides the basis for a new approach to alcoholism in the military service, one that stresses education for prevention and early recognition, encourages referral and self-referral for prompt evaluation and treatment of suitable cases, and provides for a more flexible, rapid, and effective means of disposition within the framework of existing regulations.
