Drug & Alcohol Awareness

If you think a friend has a serious problem with drugs or alcohol, step up and have the #CouragetoCare.

Drunk and stupid is no way to go through life, son.

Dean Vernon Wormer, Animal House

  • What We Know

    Excessive alcohol use, underage drinking, and binge drinking can lead to increased risk of health problems such as injuries, violence, liver diseases, and cancer.

    • 66% of college students drink more than 5 drinks— per sitting.
    • 15% of college students used prescription pain killers, sedatives, or stimulants not prescribed to them.
    • $5.5 billion was spent last year on alcohol by college students. That's more than they spend on soft drinks, milk, juice, tea, coffee, and textbooks combined.
    • 72% of IU students think that something should be done when someone is abusing drugs.
    • 66% of students have witnessed an emergency situation involving drinking.
  • What Can We Do?

    Before the party starts

    • Encourage your friends to do something other than attend a party and drink alcohol for at least part of the night.
    • Make sure that you and your friend have something to eat before you go out.
    • If a friend is trying to avoid drinking, hang out with them to show your support.
    • Make a pact with your friends to drink less, if you decide to attend a party with alcohol.

    At the party

    Alternate drinking water and alcohol—you will still have a good time, and you will be better able to pay attention to your friends and how they are acting.

    When the Party Doesn’t Stop

    It’s difficult to distinguish a serious drug or alcohol problem from recreational use. It’s even harder to muster the courage to have a conversation with a friend engaged in drug or alcohol use.

    If a friend or fellow Hoosier displays 3 or more of the following indications, he or she may need your help.

    • Increased tolerance
    • Attempting to reduce use, but being unable to do so
    • Defensiveness when asked about drug use
    • Continued drinking or using despite concern expressed by others or by campus and legal consequences
    • Changes in behaviors—missing classes or work, lying, sudden hostility and aggression
    • Changes in appearance—sudden weight loss or rapid weight gain
    • Noticeable social isolation
    • Possession of pills, missing medications, or stolen property
  • Take Action

    Don’t be Afraid – Do the Right Thing

    The HoosierPact and the Indiana Lifeline Law protect you from getting into trouble when you call for a friend that needs help. These policies are in place so Hoosiers will have the #CouragetoCare and do the right thing to get someone help when they need it. So, be a Hoosier and take action.

    • Call 9-1-1 immediately.
    • Stay with the person.
    • Cooperate with authorities.
    • If you live in a residence hall, find a Residence Hall Assistant (RA) or call the center desk for help. They are also available to provide support and guidance.

    If you notice any of these signs, CALL 9-1-1 immediately

    • Mental confusion, unconsciousness, and semiconscious (person won’t wake up)
    • Cold, clammy, pale, or bluish skin
    • Increased, depressed, or absent vital signs, such as slow, shallow, irregular breathing or hyperventilation
    • Vomiting or abdominal pain
    • Seizures and convulsions
    • Pinpoint or large pupils
    • Sweating
    • Exaggerated excitement, fidgetiness, or impulsivity

It’s common to hear, “college is supposed to be like this—drinking and partying and experimenting,” but when the party becomes the problem, someone has to step up. One small mistake can have a major impact.

  • Encourage your friends to do something other than attend a party and drink alcohol.
  • If a friend is trying to avoid drinking, hang out with them to show your support.
  • Talk to your friend if you are concerned about their regular or risky alcohol or drug use.
  • Contact the OASIS office or the IU Counseling Center (CAPS) if you want tips on how to have that conversation.