This article is designed specifically for first-year college students. The goal is to provide practical information that supports informed choices, promotes safety, and builds resilience in a new college environment.

Understanding Drugs

Definition: Drugs are substances that alter the way the brain and body function. They can be legal (e.g., alcohol, prescription medications) or illegal (e.g., cocaine, ecstasy).

Types of drugs:

• Depressants: Alcohol, benzodiazepines – slow down brain activity
• Stimulants: Caffeine, cocaine, Adderall – increase alertness
• Hallucinogens: LSD, psilocybin – distort perception
• Opioids: Prescription painkillers, heroin – relieve pain but can be highly addictive

Why First-Year Students Are at Risk

• New freedom & less supervision
• Academic and social stress
• Desire to fit in
• Curiosity or peer pressure

The Impact of Drug Use

Short-term effects:

• Impaired judgment
• Increased risk of injury or assault
• Academic problems
• Legal or disciplinary actions

Long-term risks:

• Dependency or addiction
• Mental health issues (depression, anxiety)
• Physical health problems (heart, liver, brain damage)
• Relationship strain

Mixing Substances

• Combining alcohol and prescription drugs (like Xanax or painkillers) can slow breathing and be fatal
• Mixing stimulants and depressants can mask effects and increase overdose risk

Knowing the Law

• Underage drinking and drug possession can lead to:
  • Arrest
  • Loss of financial aid
  • Suspension or expulsion

How to Stay Safe

• Set limits if you choose to drink
• Never leave drinks unattended
• Don’t accept unknown pills or substances
• Use the buddy system, stay with friends you trust
• Know your campus resources (see below)
• If you suspect opioid overdoes, Narcan can be effective in reversing the effects.

Support & Resources

Most campuses have:

• Counseling centers
• Health clinics
• Peer support or recovery programs
• Anonymous hotlines or text lines
• Resident advisors (RAs) trained in crisis response

Making Informed Choices

• It’s okay to say no, most students overestimate how many of their peers are using drugs
• Choose friends who respect your boundaries

Focus on what you want out of college – don’t let drug use derail your goals