Going to College and Staying Healthy:
Alcohol and Drugs
What should I know about alcohol and drinking?
You will definitely encounter alcohol and drinking while you are at college, although there are many people at college who don't drink. Many people prefer doing activities that don't involve drinking, such as going to a movie or a play, going out to eat, or participating in an athletic event or a campus organization. Before you make any decision about drinking at college, you should know the risks. Even if you are familiar with drinking from high school, it is important to consider this information.
Heavy drinking can cause physical illness (or even death) and may lead to bigger drinking problems in the future. Drinking sometimes brings out aggression and violence in people, including sexual aggressiveness. Sexual harassment and date rape are often associated with alcohol use. It is very hard to think clearly and make good decisions when you drink, so you might do something while you drink that you would regret later.
You probably know that drinking under the age of 21 is illegal. But, if you haven’t already, you will undoubtedly encounter alcohol at some point before you turn 21. Obviously, the best way to avoid alcohol-related problems is to not drink. If you decide to drink, it should be your own decision and not because of pressure from others. Also, remember that if you drink more than one or two drinks, you may not be able to think as clearly. Because drinking impairs judgement and slows reflexes, you shouldn't drive after you have been drinking or ride with someone who has been drinking. If you feel that you have a drinking problem or if friends are commenting on your drinking, you should see a counselor at your college counseling service.
Be smart when it comes to drinking and try out different activities that don't include alcohol, such as movies, museums and sports. You'll see that you don't need to drink to have a good time. |
What should I know about drug use?
You may know people at college who use drugs and you may feel pressure to try them. Remember that the majority of young adults do not use drugs. Drugs may seem like something to try, but drug use can have serious consequences such as accidents, unsafe behavior, and addiction. Continuous drug use can cause you to do worse in school, make you depressed, and destroy relationships. Even trying drugs once can cause you to do something that you will regret later. If you see a friend with a drug problem, try to get her/him to go for help. If you have a problem, get help.
Drugs won't make you happy or solve your problems. There are other ways to have fun and to feel good. Try a different activity or try finding other people to spend time with. |
Check out these other College Health Guides:
Knowing About My Health Before I Go to College
Health Services and Health Care Providers
Some Common Health Problems at College
Violence/Abuse in Relationships
Resources: Hotlines/Websites/Books
Updated 2/5/2008
Related Information:
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