Alcohol, Other Drugs and Crisis Prevention Information

• National Suicide Prevention Hotline / Website
• Veterans Crisis Line
• Prevention of Substance Abuse and Mental Illness
• CU Student Conduct Code  (see Appendix 11)
• Center for Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University
• Facts on tap
• National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Info.
• MADD
• AA Local Meeting Directory
• Suicide Prevention
• National Institute on Drug Abuse

Alcohol Poisoning is a Real Danger

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. Drinking too much alcohol within a brief period of time can put a person at risk.

A person can die from acute alcohol intoxication (alcohol poisoning).  Don't leave the person alone to sleep off the after-effects of alcohol consumption - especially if you think the person has consumed an excessive amount.

Generally, when a person has consumed too much alcohol, the body tries to get rid of it by vomiting or the person may pass out (which doesn't allow any more consumption of this central nervous system depressant). During drinking games (and other activities of this type) large quantities of alcohol are consumed in a short period of time.  Too much alcohol in the bloodstream is extremely dangerous and can result in death. 

The following are some of the symptoms of alcohol poisoning:

• unconsciousness with very irregular, shallow breathing
• the skin may be pale, cold and/or clammy
• the person may vomit while unconscious and may not awaken after vomiting

If any of these symptoms are present, or if you suspect overconsumption, you need to get help. If you are unsure it is better to be safe than sorry. Call 911 or Public Safety immediately. Don't leave the person alone.  Get help.

Drinking games, chugging alcohol and 'shots' are dangerous activities that can result in serious consequences.

PLEASE, do not engage in these activities.

What You Should Know

• Alcohol has been implicated in as many as 90% of campus sexual assault incidents.
• Alcohol plays a major role in 95% of violent crimes on university campuses.
• People with alcohol and substance abuse problems often don't realize that they have a problem.
• Alcohol abuse and other substance abuse contribute to serious physical, social and psychological problems on our campuses.
• Alcohol and drug use are often associated with high risk behaviors. The use of substances can have negative effects upon the user's quality of life, including relationships, academic achievements and career goals.