Alcohol and Other Drugs

Some students find that their drinking or substance use patterns become problematic. Signs that you may be experiencing a problem include poor academic performance, conflict in social, romantic, or familial relationships, and black-outs. University Counseling can help you address these issues and develop behavior patterns that are more healthy.

Substance Abuse: Impaired ability to regulated substance consumption leading to adverse consequences including:

• Failure to fulfill obligations (academic, social, etc.) 
• Use that is physically hazardous 
• Legal problems 
• Recurrent interpersonal problems 
• Medical problems

Substance Dependence: Pattern of maladaptive substance use leading you significant functional impairment or distress:

• Tolerance (need more of the drug for the same effect) 
• Withdrawal (most often alcohol or opiates) 
• Use consistently exceeds intentions 
• Unsuccessful efforts to control use
• Impairment of functioning 

Alcohol is by far the biggest problem at W & L, but cocaine, stimulants, MJ, and LSD are also common problems. Watch for:

• Repeated pattern of drinking or using in spite of adverse consequences
• academic effects
• risky behavior such as driving or indiscriminate sexual behavior; blackouts.

Remember: There is danger of death by alcohol poisoning. Opiates are especially dangerous in overdose.

Alcohol and College Drinking