Alcohol misuse in the United Kingdom Armed Forces: A longitudinal study

Area of Science:

• Military Health
• Addiction Research
• Psychological Trauma

Background:

• The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is a key screening tool for hazardous alcohol consumption.
• Understanding factors influencing alcohol use in military populations is crucial for targeted interventions.
• Previous research indicates a complex interplay between mental health, life events, and substance use in service members.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess changes in Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores among UK military personnel over time.
• To investigate the impact of life events and mental health status on AUDIT scores in this population.

Main Methods:

• A representative sample of UK military personnel surveyed in two phases (2004-2006 and 2007-2009).
• Assessed changes in psychological distress, probable PTSD, marital status, smoking, and deployment.
• Statistical analysis to determine the association between these factors and changes in AUDIT scores.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant, though small, decrease in overall AUDIT scores was observed between survey phases.
• Remission of psychological distress, probable PTSD, smoking cessation, and new relationships were associated with decreased AUDIT scores.
• New-onset or persistent probable PTSD symptoms and relationship breakdowns were linked to increased AUDIT scores.

Conclusions:

• Hazardous alcohol consumption remains a significant concern within the UK military.
• Changes in AUDIT scores are strongly associated with fluctuations in mental health status and significant life events.
• Deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan was not found to be a significant factor in changes in AUDIT scores.