April is Alcoholism Awareness Month. Alcoholism is a treatable brain disorder in which people lose their ability to control their use of alcohol. There have been significant advancements in alcohol treatment in recent years. Researchers have identified biology, genetics, mental health, social environment and childhood trauma as some of the factors that predispose a person to develop an addiction to alcohol. Brain imaging studies identify both subtle and rapid signal changes in the brain may bring about cravings to drink.

Drinking alcohol is associated with many pleasurable day to day activities, but it can become a problem. Some of the signs of "hazardous drinking" are:

• Drinking alcohol despite significant others expressing concern or embarrassment because of your drinking
• Drinking when your doctor recommends that you abstain from alcohol
• Drinking alcohol and taking medication that you are warned not to mix with alcohol
• Avoiding taking medication because of being warned not to mix alcohol and medication.
• Having blackouts when drinking alcohol
• Drinking which interferes with you carrying out your responsibilities such as childcare, housework or employment responsibilities
• Legal, financial or marital problems related to drinking alcohol.

The hub of alcohol treatment programming at the Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center is the Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program or SARP. There are also specialized services for veterans with PTSD and addiction, heroin addiction and for veterans who need support in the community after completing an intensive program. Residential treatment is available at other regional (VISN) Treatment facilities. There will soon be outpatient services available at all the Community Based Clinics (CBOC). Access to services requires a referral from your primary care doctor or another medical doctor. The SARP program does include a family education component for the family members of veterans who are attending treatment. If you have any questions please call or stop by the SARP program located on 3CNorth in the hospital. The main number is 745-8336.