By THE COUNSELING CENTER
Did you know that September is the National Month for Recovery? According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), alcohol, illicit drugs, and tobacco use are most commonly used among full-time college students, ages 18 to 22. Although college campuses have a long history of alcohol and marijuana use, there has been an increase in misuse of medications such as Adderall and Ritalin. Students are misusing stimulants, like Adderall and Ritalin, because they are under the impression that it might make them smarter or more prepared for pulling an all-nighter, which is simply not true. Prescription stimulants are safe and effective when a medical professional treats individuals with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Bottom line, taking someone else’s prescribed medications is never okay. It has adverse effects including sleep disruption, cardiovascular side effects (high blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and stroke), increased risk for mental health disorders, like depression, bipolar disorder, and unusual behaviors including aggressive or hostile behavior.
Substance misuse among college students is largely driven by the social environment and pressures of college. Don’t let the pressures of college lead to unhealthy habits such as all-nighters, binge drinking, and sleep deprivation.
Here are some tips for enjoying the experience without imbibing excessively:
- Stay hydrated.
- Eat before drinking.
- Alternate drinks from non-alcoholic to alcoholic; it slows down the absorption.
- Drink slowly… it takes 30 minutes to feel the effects of alcohol.
- Travel in pairs.
- Plan your transportation before drinking… never drink and drive!
- Take care of your friends… don’t leave them alone or let them “sleep it off.” When in doubt call Campus Safety & Security 518-454-5187 or call 911.
- Make sure your phone is charged before going out.
- Don’t mix drinks and drugs… it can lead to vomiting, fainting, blacking-out, or worse.
- Don’t let your drink out of sight!
- Bring less money with you so you can limit your drinking and spending.
Please consider that not drinking may be a good choice for you, and know that there are many students who choose not to drink. Though it seems that most college students drink a lot, studies show that most students do not actually drink, or they drink less than you think. There are numerous campus events that do not include alcohol, so be sure to check your Strose email for the latest weekly announcements and events from Dr. Shai Butler.
If you have any concerns about your substance use, mental health wellness or any other issues, please visit the College of Saint Rose Counseling Center located at 441 Western Ave. We are open Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you have any questions, please call 518-454-5200. Follow us on Instagram @csrcounselingctr. Visit the therapy dogs in the Main Lounge every Wednesday from 3 to 5 p.m.
