Alcohol and Drugs

The use of alcohol and other substances is often enjoyable in moderation, however, many substances can become addictive or habit-forming, and if use becomes chronic and/or excessive if may begin to affect your academics, relationships, and mental and physical health. A party culture that involves heavy alcohol or drug consumption can have a negative impact on the larger campus community.  If you have questions or concerns about whether your own level of use is healthy, consider visiting the Center for Counseling and Mental Health for a confidential assessment or taking an anonymous online alcohol self-screening. While there is no specific measurement to determine when substance use crosses the line from social and fun to unhealthy, the following signs may indicate that a problem exists. The greater the number of signs on the list, the greater the concern.

Recognize

  • You have difficulty controlling how much you drink/use and don't respect limits you set for yourself
  • Friends, family members or others have expressed concerns about your use
  • You go to class or work under the influence
  • You have been injured or have caused injury to someone else as a result of your substance use
  • You have had legal or disciplinary problems as a result of your substance use
  • You have experienced blackouts or brownouts (memory lapses) as a result of your substance use
  • Substance use has affected your daily functioning, e.g. class or work attendance or performance, relationships, attention, or memory
  • You have done things you later regret under the influence
  • While under the influence, you engage in high-risk behaviors such as drinking and driving, having unprotected sex, binge drinking, etc.
  • You regularly think about alcohol/drugs and when you can next drink/use
  • You feel reliant on alcohol or drugs, e.g. drink in the morning, can’t go without smoking for a day, feel you need to drink or get high in certain situations.

Resources

On Campus (413-542-extension)

Off Campus