| There’s a little beverage I’d like to tell you about; it has mixed properties that require caution. You may be able to drink just a little of it and feel closer to your friends, stop paying attention to your worries, feel your mood lift and feel more carefree. On the other hand, this spooky libation might actually cause more problems in your life over time, so you might drink more of it in an effort to calm down. It may initially seem innocent enough, but it can hook you into a vicious cycle. You’ll have to drink more of it to reap its stress-reducing effects, but eventually it will disrupt your sleep, interfere with your mind and erode your important relationships. Once you start relying on alcohol to cut down on stress, you’re showing an early sign of trouble. |
As we get closer to the end of the year, there are many exciting moments to look forward to, such as holiday parties and family gatherings. Be prepared. If some of these are triggers for you, ask yourself, “What’s my plan?” You have been in this situation before. Don’t let anyone control your consumption of alcohol. You don’t have to drink to have a good time.
If you think you are misusing or abusing alcohol, contact one of the Peace Officer’s Fellowship (POF) names listed here, or contact Psychological Services Bureau at (213) 738-3500. Both can provide confidential assistance to help you get and stay sober. There are recovering peace officers and law enforcement psychologists willing to help you.