You might assume social life in college involves a lot of drinking or other drug use, but the reality is that most college students make responsible choices about substances. As you get out there this fall to meet new friends and reconnect with old ones, keep your well-being in mind, as well as others’, with these tips:
Have fun and skip the alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs
UWM’s Fall Welcome events calendar has something for everyone, with tons of activities on campus and in Milwaukee. Regardless of your plans, staying sober is always an option. You won’t be the only one and you can definitely still have fun. To make it easier to not use when others are, plan what you’ll say to turn down offers to drink or use.
Lower your risk if choosing to use
The healthiest and least-risky choice is to avoid using alcohol or other drugs. However, if you choose to use, here’s how to lower your risk:
- Use alcohol in moderation and space your drinks.
- Avoid highly concentrated THC or cannabis to reduce chances for anxiety, agitation and paranoia.
- Only use pills as prescribed for you by a medical professional and from a licensed pharmacy.
- Avoid mixing substances, including alcohol, illicit and prescription drugs.
- Use only when others are around so they can help if you need it.
- Many drugs and counterfeit pills are laced with dangerous ingredients like fentanyl. Use a fentanyl test strip before taking any drugs purchased anyplace other than a licensed pharmacy or dispensary.
- Carry Narcan, a safe medication that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. Learn more about Narcan at UWM.
- Plan for getting home safely with a sober ride, such as the campus ride service, B.O.S.S. (Be On the Safe Side).
Help someone who’s had too much
Learn the signs of overdose and what you can do to help. UWM’s victim assistance policy and Wisconsin Good Samaritan laws prioritize safety over citations for people who are drinking or using drugs.
Finally, reach out if you think or know you or someone you care about has a problem with alcohol or other drugs. Please contact a professional at the Student Health and Wellness Center. Help is available and people with substance use problems can and do get better.
