Alcohol/drug use and substance abuse

Much has been written in recent years about the health benefits of moderate alcohol use. Unfortunately, that information has also been viewed by some as permission to continue their ongoing abuse of alcohol. Likewise, while there are valid medical reasons to take legally prescribed drugs, it is not uncommon for an individual to lose control over their use of those medications and, in some instances, advance to such risk-taking behavior as seeking illegal drugs as substitutions.

Once an addiction begins, it can carry a host of additional issues, including the loss of self-control, judgment, motivation, memory, and the ability to learn. People who choose to abuse alcohol and/or drugs run the risk of incurring serious health problems such as high blood pressure, increased risk of cancer, heart disease, hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholism, drug addiction, brain damage, and, in extreme cases, sudden death. Additionally, individuals with substance abuse problems pose a serious risk to themselves and to others when they elect to drive under the influence.

College officials encourage students who suspect that they or a friend might have a problem with alcohol or drug use to contact one of the following for assistance:

• Director of student support services, (706) 355-5081, Room H-749 on the Athens Campus.
• Advantage Behavior Health Systems — Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services, 196 Miles Street, Athens, GA (706) 369-5745
• Alcoholics Anonymous, Athens, GA (706) 543-0436

The Student Activities Office in conjunction with Student Support Services, schedules alcohol and substance abuse seminars throughout the academic year. The director of student activities posts notices announcing these seminars on bulletin boards around campus, electronic message boards, and the college website.