Substances are not just the numerous drugs that can be snorted, injected, or ingested but also applies to legal drugs taken inappropriately, which includes the misuse of alcohol and tobacco (see Student Code of Conduct). When asked why they used and/or abused substances many young adults responded this way:
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I smoke cigarettes to stay thin.
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I started smoking in high school and the stress of college prevents me from quitting.
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I drop ecstasy to dance all night.
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I smoke heroin to feel no pain in my life.
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I drink because my friends do.
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I smoke pot to relax.
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Drugs help me to be less bored.
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I take drugs our of curiosity; it is a part of the college experience.
Substance Misuse Solutions . . . DO'S
- Talk openly and honestly with your friends about your concerns.
- Provide healthy alternatives for you and your friends (sports, movies, etc.)
- Ask others (professors, staff, counselors, other friends) to help you with a friend.
- Talk openly with others about your fears, doubts, frustrations, and pain.
- Encourage yourself and others to develop honest relationships with their parents, siblings, and other friends.
- Make sure your expectations for school and career success are realistic. Don't create a schedule well beyond your physical limitations.
- Make an appointment with Allen Riggs at Allen.Riggs@snow.edu (283-7125) for individual assistance.
- Continue to love and hope.
Substance Misuse Solutions . . . DONT'S
- Don't be reactive; not all substance use is misuse or abuse.
- Don't believe that substance misuse/abuse is a disease and lifelong abstinence is the only cure.
- Don't use guilt on yourself or the person you wish to help.
- Don't allow shame to isolate you from those trying to help you.
- Don't refer a friend or personally engage in a treatment program without understanding its philosophy on treatment.