Substance Use/Misuse — Definition and ADAPT
DoD Policy Foundation
DoD Substance Policy
Department of Defense policy is to prevent and eliminate problematic substance use in the Department of Defense.
Why Incompatible
Substance Use Incompatibility
Substance use and abuse is incompatible with:
- USAF core values
- Maintenance of high standards of behavior
- Performance
- Readiness
- Discipline necessary to accomplish the Air Force mission
Health and Safety Risks
Additionally, substance abuse and misuse can cause serious physical and mental health problems and jeopardize safety.
Drug Abuse Defined
Drug Abuse Definition
According to AFI 1-1, the illegal use of drugs, or improper use of legal drugs, is prohibited and will not be tolerated.
Reference
DAFMAN 44-197 Reference
In DAFMAN 44-197, *Military Drug Demand Reduction Program*, drug abuse is described as:
- The wrongful use, possession, distribution, or introduction onto a military installation or other property or facility under military supervision, of:
- A controlled substance
- Prescription medication
- Over-the-counter medication
- Intoxicating substance (other than alcohol)
"Wrongful" Defined
Wrongful Definition
"Wrongful" means without legal justification or excuse, and includes:
- Use contrary to the directions of the manufacturer or prescribing healthcare provider
- Use of any intoxicating substance not intended for human ingestion
What Drug Abuse Includes
Drug Abuse Includes
Drug abuse also includes:
- Inhalant abuse (sometimes referred to as huffing)
- Steroid use, other than that specifically prescribed by a competent medical authority
Consequences
UCMJ + Admin
Violators are subject to:
- Punitive action under the UCMJ
- Adverse administrative actions, up to and including administrative separation
Intoxicating Substance Prohibitions
Intoxicating Substance Prohibition
The knowing use of any intoxicating substance (other than the lawful use of alcohol, tobacco products, or prescription drugs), which is inhaled, injected, consumed, or introduced into the body in any manner to alter mood or function, is prohibited and will not be tolerated.
Possession with Intent
The possession of an intoxicating substance with the intent to use in a manner that would alter mood or function, without legal authorization, is prohibited and will not be tolerated.
ADAPT Program
ADAPT Program
USAF members with substance abuse problems are encouraged to seek assistance from:
- Unit commander
- First sergeant
- Substance abuse counselor
- Military medical professional
…through the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment (ADAPT) Program.
What ADAPT Includes
ADAPT Includes
ADAPT and drug demand reduction programs include:
- Substance use/misuse prevention
- Education
- Treatment
- Urinalysis testing
Limited Duty for SUD
Limited Duty for SUD
All patients diagnosed with a substance use disorder and entered into ADAPT will be recommended for limited duty, indicating the patient is not worldwide qualified.
Counseling + Accountability
Counseling + Accountability
Individuals who experience problems related to substance use/misuse will receive counseling and treatment as needed; however, all USAF members are held accountable for unacceptable behavior.