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Alcohol and Other Drug Education

Student Wellness is committed to providing education around alcohol and other drug (AOD) use to our Bearkat community. We recognize that not all students engage in AOD use; however, for the students who choose to do so, we want to ensure that they have the knowledge to do so in ways that reduce their risk of negative outcomes.

Educational Resources

Data from the National College Health Assessment* shows:

  • 56% of college students reported drinking alcohol in the past 3 months
  • Of college students choosing to drink alcohol, 80% are not engaging in high-risk drinking behaviors, such as binge drinking
  • 22% of college students reported using cannabis in the last 3 months

*Fall 2024 Executive Summary

The health risks of misusing alcohol or other drugs can include physical, emotional, and psychological effects. The National Institute on Drug Abuse offers comprehensive list of the health effects of alcohol and other drugs.

Misuse of alcohol or other drugs can impact your ability to be successful academically, occupationally, financially, and could even lead to legal consequences or disciplinary action from the university.

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance on college campuses. If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in a way that reduces the risk of negative outcomes.

  • Know what a standard serving size of alcohol is.
  • Stick to one standard serving size of alcohol per hour.
  • Eat food and drink water while consuming alcohol.
  • Do not mix alcohol with other drugs, including cannabis and/or Rx medications.
  • Never leave your drink unattended. If you do, throw it out.
  • Never drive under the influence of alcohol (or other drugs). Have a designated driver or call a car ride service to get home safely.

Cannabis use has increased in popularity, despite the fact that recreational use of cannabis is illegal at both the state level (for Texas) and the federal level. Cannabis use may come with legal consequences as well as potential consequences at the university level.

Certain products, such as delta-8 THC, are legal under current state law; however, the legal status of this substance could change in the future.

In addition to legal status, it is important to know that cannabis and other THC products are not regulated in the state of Texas. This means that there is no way to know how much THC is in the product you are using or if the product has been contaminated with other substances, such as fentanyl.

If you are choosing to use THC in any form:

  • Be aware that different products have different levels of THC. Some products, such as concentrates, can have up to 90% THC. High levels of THC can have significant side effects, including but not limited to, nausea and vomiting, mood changes, and anxiety or paranoia.
  • Do not mix THC products with alcohol or other substances. This can increase potential negative outcomes associated with use.
  • Do not drive if you use THC in any form. Have a designated drive or call a car ride service to get home safely.
Naloxone (also known as Narcan) is an over-the-counter drug that can prevent an opioid overdose. Watch this video to learn how to use Narcan to save a life.

be a good Sam policy

The following amnesty policy (also referred to as the Be a Good SAM policy) can be found in the Student Code of Conduct under Student Responsibilities:

'Because the University prioritizes the health and safety of its students, students who seek medical assistance for themselves of others due to alcohol or drug intoxication, or who report incidents of hazing, sexual misconduct, or other serious violations, will not be subject to disciplinary action under this Code for their own minor policy violations (e.g., underage drinking) at the time of seeking help or reporting, provided they cooperate with University officials and engage in recommended educational interventions. This policy is intended to remove barriers to seeking help and to encourage health and safety-related reporting.'

Texas 911 Lifeline legislation allows for amnesty consideration for criminal citations for those seeking lifesaving medical attention in relation to the result of illegal action of possessing or consuming alcohol as a minor.

On-Campus Resources

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801 Bowers Blvd, Suite 115, Huntsville, TX 77340

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studentwellness@shsu.edu

936-294-2653

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Monday through Friday
​8am-5pm

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