Substance abuse is an increasing problem on college campuses. According to a study on Drug and Alcohol Use in College-Age Adults in 2015, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that 31.9% of college students participated in binge drinking within the past two weeks. “Daily marijuana use has steadily increased among college students in the past two decades with 3.7 percent smoking marijuana daily in 1995, 4.0 percent in 2005, and 4.6 percent in 2015.” A huge concern is underage drinking on college campuses. Not only is it illegal for someone under 21 to purchase and consume alcohol, but it can put the student’s academic future and life at risk. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism states, “The consequences of underage drinking can affect everyone— regardless of age or drinking status. We all feel the effects of the aggressive behavior, property damage, injuries, violence, and deaths that can result from underage drinking. This is not simply a problem for some families—it is a nationwide concern.” So what are college campuses all over Colorado doing to curb substance abuse issues among their student body? Depending on the campus, there are different levels of resources provided to students. Learn more about what universities are doing to keep their students healthy and drug-free.

1. Colorado Mesa University (Grand Junction)

Many state funded universities have drug and alcohol services for their students. Colorado Mesa is no different. “Colorado Mesa University is dedicated to instilling positive change in students’ lives. The university believes the abuse of alcohol and drugs is counterproductive to this goal and has established campus policies and programs, which support the following:

1. Reduce consumption by those who use alcohol heavily;
2. Responsible consumption for those who occasionally drink alcohol.”

MAVrides is a service available to students that offers safe, free rides Friday and Saturday from 9pm to 3am. Call 970.248.2222 to arrange a ride or to become a volunteer. Student Health Clinic Phone: (970) 256-6345 Location: 1060 Orchard Ave. (North of the Elliot Tennis Center) The Student Health Clinic offers a variety of services and is a good starting place to seek drug and alcohol counseling.

2. Colorado State University (Fort Collins)

Colorado State University is hard at work creating a multi-level approach to campus drug and alcohol use. Incoming students are required to participate in a program that discusses this issue. “As part of CSU’s comprehensive approach to alcohol, it is required that all new incoming students (including transfer and international) under the age of 23, as of December 20, 2016, complete AlcoholEdu for College. AlcoholEdu is an interactive, online program designed to inform students about how alcohol affects the body, mind, perceptions and behaviors. The research-based course offers accurate information in a nonjudgmental tone, while providing personalized feedback that encourages students to consider their own drinking decisions and those of their peers. Even if students don’t drink, they may still be impacted by alcohol use in the college environment.” Alcohol and Drug Resources – These resources include assessments, safe ride programs, party registration, drug policies, and information for families of students. Medical Services Phone: (970) 491-7121 Location: Hartshorn Health Center

3. University of Colorado (Boulder)

The University of Colorado at Boulder provides a variety of resources for students. Their website includes educational content that give students reasons not to drink and use drugs. They also have drug and alcohol evaluations through their Counseling and Psychiatric Services and are able to give to students seeking help: “In an effort to support students and help them succeed, CAPS is committed to working with students to avoid pitfalls related to alcohol and drugs. CAPS offers several services to address these issues. If our services are not appropriate, we will work with students and families to make appropriate referrals.” Resources include:

• Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) – “All fee-paying students are eligible to receive up to six free mental health visits per academic year with CAPS at either location; the Center for Community (C4C) and Wardenburg Health Center.”
• Sober living community (Oasis) – “Oasis is a voluntary program for CU-Boulder students seeking support in living a sober lifestyle. It functions as a community of support for any student in recovery from addiction, any student considering moving toward a sober lifestyle, or any student who chooses not to use substances.”
• Sober Club – “A student group at CU dedicated to supporting sobriety and well-being for the campus community.”
• CU Collegiate Recovery Center – “The CU Collegiate Recovery Center (CUCRC) provides a home for the sober community on the CU-Boulder campus and support for those in recovery from alcohol or drug use and other addictive behaviors. It is open to all who are in recovery or choosing sobriety/abstinence, and to those who are supportive of the recovery community.”
• 24-hour substance abuse hotline – “Boulder County maintains a 24-hour alcohol and/or substance abuse crisis line for residents. University faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to use this free service for support, education, and crisis intervention by calling 303-441-1275.”

4. University of Colorado (Colorado Springs)

UCCS offers a variety of services to students. “UCCS provides education, counseling, and referral for rehabilitative treatment relating to drug and alcohol abuse. Programs are available through Office of the Dean of Students (student education and treatment), Benefits Office (faculty/ staff education and treatment), and Department of Public Safety (event guidance and training).” UCCS Wellness Center Phone: (719) 255-4444 Location: To left of main campus entrance.

5. University of Denver

The University of Denver’s Health and Counseling Center (HCC), is staffed by:

• Physicians
• Physician assistants
• Nurses
• Nurse practitioners
• Psychologists
• Psychiatrists
• Social Workers
• Other trained professionals

The university offers a variety of online assessments for students including: the Electronic Check Up To Go (eCHUG) for alcohol abuse and the Electronic THC Online Knowledge Experience (eTOKE) for marijuana use. Sessions with a counselor take place after the student has completed the session online. “This session provides an opportunity for students to explore their motivation for using alcohol and may discuss possible ways of doing so in a less harmful way. Session cost is $50.” “HealthY Peer Empowerment (HYPE) Peer Educator Interns are a select group of student leaders who promote the health of the DU campus community.  As part of the Health & Counseling Center (HCC) Health Promotion team, HYPE Interns: develop and implement outreach programs regarding pertinent health topics and resources; support the education and outreach efforts of the DU Health and Counseling Center; serve as liaisons between DU students and campus health professionals.” Health and Counseling Center Phone: (303) 871-2205 Location: 2240 E Buchtel Blvd, 3N. Denver, CO  80210

6. University of Northern Colorado

“UNC is above the national average for responsible drinking behaviors among students — the overwhelming majority of UNC students report regularly using a designated driver — according to a survey by the American College Health Association. This initiative will allow UNC to implement a research-based campaign. This will expand existing educational efforts currently taking place on campus to address impaired driving and other unintended consequences related to alcohol consumption.” New student orientation includes a section on risky drinking and drug use. Wednesday nights are also considered safe nights, “Wednesday night has been identified as a traditionally high risk drinking night for UNC students. CPE offers BINGO Night as a late-night alternative to drinking that is interactive, fun and educational (average attendance of 300 students).” Student Health Center Phone: (970) 351-2412 Location: Cassidy Hall 1901 10th Ave. Greeley, CO

7. Western State Colorado University (Gunnison)

Western State Colorado University takes a more educational approach when advocating for campus safety. Instead of drug and alcohol policies, its website appeals to students through facts about drug use, “Before drinking, think about its possible consequences (e.g. academic and health problems, unsafe sex, assault, injury and even death). These consequences affect the person who drinks as well as other students (whether they choose to drink or not) and the community as a whole.” “Western routinely offers drug and alcohol awareness programs. In addition, some special programs and organizations include: the SWEET Life, NCAA Choices, and BACCHUS (a national student organization to promote responsible drinking). Professional and student staffs are trained to intervene and refer any instances in which drug or alcohol is an issue to the proper authorities.” Substance abuse resources for students:

• Western State College Health Center:  970-943-2707
• Western State College Counseling Center:  970-943-2484
• Western Responsible Alcohol Partnership (WRAP):  970-943-2500
• Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT): http://sbirtcolorado.org/

Campus Health Center Phone: (970) 943.2707 Location: 600 North Adams Street Gunnison, CO 81231 When campus resources aren’t enough, a great detox and rehab program may be the answer. Depending on the student’s needs, outpatient and inpatient care are options families can explore. Learn how AspenRidge North can help get students sober and back on track. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2015). Drug and Alcohol Use in College-Age Adults in 2015. Retrieved from: https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/infographics/drug-alcohol-use-in-college-age-adults-in-2015 CollegeDrinking.gov. (2017). https://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/