Tufts Alcohol & Drug Program - Helpful Tips

Health Education 617.627.5495

Consider This...
What on this list of tips are you already doing and/or what might you change?

• Know your limits. Be safe.
• Learn to socialize without alcohol.
• Avoid drinking when recovering from other addictions or taking many medications.
• Don't drink when you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Don't drink when driving, riding motorcycles, etc. Pick a designated driver.
• Don't drink when you are studying.
• Avoid providing alcohol to people under 21.
• Respect those who make different choices - like not to drink.
• Watch out for your friends.
• Accept that choosing to be a student at Tufts comes with a responsibility to creating a safe, healthy, diverse and respectful campus.

Tobacco
A fairly high percentage of college students smoke. 35.8%
A higher percentage chooses not to smoke! 64.2
And, half of the current college smokers would like to quit.

Data also shows us that some groups on campus are more likely to use tobacco because the Tobacco Industry targets these groups with ads, sponsorships and promotional events in an insidious effort to recruit and maintain them as life-long smokers. These groups are called priority populations because they are a priority for prevention efforts. These groups include gay, lesbian, bisexual & transgendered students, fraternity members, art students & women although, of course, folks in almost all of our campus populations smoke. www.bacchusgamma.org

Call Health Services for information or help with cutting down or quitting. - 73350

Special Caution - Alcohol & Depression Don't Mix
One might want to drink to relieve sadness, loneliness and other difficult feelings. Unfortunately, it doesnt work. Since alcohol is a depressant, it can actually exacerbate the problem and intensify your feelings. If you feel depressed, contact either the Tufts Health Services or Counseling Center for help - 73350 or 73360.

Date Rape Drugs & Sexual Assault
Prescription drug use & addiction resulting from the misuse of legally-obtained medications is a growing concern for college students. In fact, prescription medication ranks 2nd behind marijuana among drugs most abused by adults and young people. In general, these drugs fall into 4 categories - pain relievers, stimulants, sedatives and tranquilizers. When used as prescribed, Ritalin, Adderall and others have clear benefits. But with misuse - both recreational and as study "aids"- there is the potential for serious side effects, abuse and addiction. In addition, if you are taking a prescription for any reason, it is also very important that you know how this medication interacts with alcohol. Talk with the care provider who is prescribing your medication.

Many different chemicals can be slipped into your drink and cause you to lose control and consciousness. This can set you up to become the victim of sexual aggression. These chemicals include GHB, Ketamine, Rohypnol and even combinations of over-the-counter drugs. When combined with alcohol, they are often undetectable and may have serious physical and medical consequences.

Alcohol is the most commonly used date rape drug. 75% of college students who experience unwanted sex are under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the incident.

REDUCE YOUR RISK:

• Don't go to parties alone
• Watch your drink at all times; don't leave it unattended
• Only accept drinks from someone you know or from a bartender, waiter or waitress
• Use the "buddy system" never leave your friends behind
• Watch your friend's drinking how much has been consumed and does the level of intoxication seem to match the amount?
• If you suspect you have been drugged and even sexually assaulted - get help immediately. Many of these drugs leave your body quickly, so, if you want your urine tested, don't wait to seek help!

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