Alcohol Problems

Given the social climate at Washington and Lee that often involves alcohol consumption, some students find that their drinking or substance use patterns become problematic. Signs that you may be experiencing a problem include poor academic performance, conflict in social, romantic, or familial relationships, and black-outs. University Counseling can help you address these issues and develop behavior patterns that are more healthy.

Substance Abuse: Impaired ability to regulated substance consumption leading to adverse consequences including:

• Failure to fulfill obligations (academic, social, etc.) 
• Use that is physically hazardous 
• Legal problems 
• Recurrent interpersonal problems 
• Medical problems

Substance Dependence: Pattern of maladaptive substance use leading you significant functional impairment or distress:

• Tolerance (need more of the drug for the same effect) 
• Withdrawal (most often alcohol or opiates) 
• Use consistently exceeds intentions 
• Unsuccessful efforts to control use
• Impairment of functioning 

Alcohol is by far the biggest problem at W & L, but cocaine, stimulants, MJ, and LSD are also common problems. Watch for:

• Repeated pattern of drinking or using in spite of adverse consequences
• academic effects
• risky behavior such as driving or indiscriminate sexual behavior; blackouts.

Remember: There is danger of death by alcohol poisoning. Opiates are especially dangerous in overdose.

L.I.F.E. Alcohol Information

National Institute of Health Alcohol Information