Do You Get It?

Alcohol and drugs are a fact of life on college campuses, just as they are in most communities. However, some students arrive at campus with media perception as to what the “college” experience is. At the University of North Dakota the facts are that:

80.2% of students drank once a week or less.
11% have never tried alcohol ever!

But, 93.1% of students BELIEVE the average student on campus uses alcohol once per week or more. So often students report that they do not want to drink to excess or at all but they feel the need to fit in. Often students report that they do not want to drink excessively or at all but they feel the need to fit in. The good news is that there are plenty of others just like them that know they can have fun without drinking or drinking to excess.

“I choose not to abuse drugs and alcohol because I value my academics and safety. I think you can have just as much fun sober; I know I do!” Megan T., UND English and Communication Major

Hints for drinking responsibly

Know your limit
Eat food while you drink.
Sip your drink.
Accept a drink only when you really want one.
Cultivate taste.
Skip a drink now and then.
Drink with a meal.
Beware of unfamiliar drinks.
Make sure that drinking improves social relationships rather than impairs them.
Appoint a designated driver.
Use alcohol carefully in connection with other drugs.
Respect the rights of individuals who do not wish to drink.
Avoid drinking mixed drinks on an empty stomach on a hot day.
If you know that you will have to drive after consuming alcohol, limit your consumption to no more than one drink an hour.

Taking a look at your own use of alcohol

Many people can use alcohol in a low-risk way without negative effects. There are some people, however, who use alcohol and experience a variety of problems, some of which can be quite serious or life threatening. If you use alcohol, it is important to periodically take a look at your drinking behaviors and the effects that go with them to determine if you are at risk.

What is E-chug?

The E-Chug (electronic Check-Up to Go) is an interactive web survey that allows you to enter information about your drinking pattern and receive feedback. The assessment takes about 6-7 minutes to complete, is self-guided, and no identifiable information is required. Check it out at http://www.und.edu/dept/adapt/

The University Counseling Center is a primary resource for issues and concerns related to alcohol and other drug use. The staff of the Center is available to consult with students, faculty and staff regarding alcohol and other drug use/abuse. There is also a staff addiction counselor available for alcohol and other drug evaluations or assessments. Appointments can be made by calling 777-2127.

Night Life @ UND

Night Life @ UND coordinates and promotes events for Friday and Saturday nights during the majority of the academic year. Events run from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Friday nights the Student Wellness Center is the main location and on Saturdays it is the Student Union. Recreational sports, crafts, entertainment, prizes and food are just some of the offerings.