ZagTalk

ZagTalk A family guide to discussing alcohol and other drugs

Dear Gonzaga Families, We are looking forward to welcoming each new Bulldog to Gonzaga University. As parents, we understand that this is a time of transition for your family. Be assured that Gonzaga offers a caring and welcoming community, dedicated to helping your students become their best selves. Cura personalis, which means care for the whole person, is part of our mission as a Catholic, Jesuit, and humanistic institution. As a Gonzaga Family, you have an opportunity to continue to play a pivotal role in helping your student practice self-care and achieve their goals while at college.

Alcohol and other drug use can have a significant negative impact on a college student’s life, and on the campus community. However, research has shown that parents can play an important role in influencing their student’s behavior.

As we strive to provide an environment conducive to learning and personal growth, we urge you to use this guide as a resource. It includes information and recommendations for initiating conversations with your student about alcohol and other drugs. You will also learn about the extensive measures the University is taking to educate each student, so that we can help prevent illegal and high-risk alcohol and drug use.

Your support is essential. Together, we can work to nurture the health and well-being of your student.

Thayne M. McCulloh, D.Phil.

President

Judi Biggs Garbuio, Ph.D. Vice President of Student Development

Making Healthy Choices As students leave high school and enter college at Gonzaga University, they are most likely excited about this important time in their lives (and may also have some feelings of uncertainty about what lies ahead). Students face some challenges and transitions that are often associated with the first year of college. One of the challenges that all students will encounter, at some point during their time in college, is the decision to participate in or associate with high-risk behaviors. We know that, since their brains are still developing and primed for taking risks, this can be tricky.

What are high-risk behaviors?

Examples of high-risk behaviors are: → drinking alcohol or using marijuana under the age of 21 → chugging alcohol, taking shots, or participating in drinking games → drinking something without knowing its’ contents → drinking with the intent of getting drunk → driving after drinking or riding in a vehicle with someone who is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs → mixing alcohol with medications, energy drinks or other illegal drugs → misusing prescription drugs

It is important to talk with your student about making healthy choices and set clear expectations about avoiding high-risk behaviors.

How can parents encourage low-risk behaviors and healthy choices?

Remind your student: → it is illegal to consume alcohol or use marijuana if they are under 21 → numerous consequences, both academic and legal, can result from choosing to drink alcohol or use other drugs → serious harm to self and others can result from excessive drinking Encourage your student to: → choose fun, alternative activities that do not involve alcohol → make realistic and safe plans whenever they leave campus → identify ways to cope with inevitable stressors → share their goals and expectations for their college experience → check in about how their living situation is working for them

622 students completed the National College Health Assessment in Spring 2016 While drinking during the past year: → 46% of students said they did something they later regretted → 42% blacked out (forgot where or what they did) → 19% physically injured themselves → 16% reported driving after consuming alcohol

The Center for Cura Personalis offers individual sessions for students experiencing these kinds of negative consequences. → 60% reported likelihood to change their drinking after attending a brief intervention Source: Gonzaga University Center for Cura Personalis (National College Health Assessment data Spring 2016)

Educating Students About AOD Use and Their Well-Being GONZAGA ACTIVELY EDUCATES STUDENTS ABOUT ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS (AOD). THE CENTER FOR CURA PERSONALIS OFFERS A VARIETY OF WORKSHOPS AND PRESENTATIONS THROUGHOUT THE ACADEMIC YEAR FOR VARIOUS STUDENT GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS, IN ADDITION TO PROVIDING CONSULTATIONS FOR STUDENTS AND STAFF.

Students will engage in a self-reflective process whereby they will independently choose to make changes to their drinking.

E-CHECKUP TO GO – This online program helps motivate students to reduce their consumption using personalized information about their own drinking and risk factors. It is designed and updated based on the most current and reliable research available.

HARM REDUCTION GROUP – This non-clinical group is offered in three-week sessions twice each semester. It is available to any student questioning the role that substances play in their life. Students will have the opportunity to learn and practice skills and strategies to reduce or manage their drug or alcohol use while receiving support from their peers.

ALCOHOL SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM – Intended for students who may be at risk for developing alcohol use problems, ASTP provides information about addiction and offers exercises and training to help students identify personal drinking cues, develop alcohol refusal skills, better recognize campus norms, and manage stress.

BASICS – Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students is an opportunity for students to meet one-on-one with a facilitator to examine their alcohol use.

IMPACT – Impact is another one-one-one opportunity for students to engage in a conversation with a facilitator about the role that drug use is playing in their life.

Students will discuss and reflect on current, as well as future, impacts on themselves, the community, and their future.

G+ – Students who are interested in talking with their peers about issues surrounding alcohol and other drug use are encouraged to get involved with the club G+. Gonzaga Peers Listening to and Understanding Students (G-PLUS) is a group of certified peer educators that develop programming for students around AOD and other topics related to health and well-being.

Think About It Requirement Gonzaga University is pleased to offer Think About It as Think About It part of our commitment to Deadlines: fostering a safe and healthy Students entering community. Think About It is in Fall 2016 – an innovative and engaging DUE Aug 24, 2016 online course, created with students, for students. In the course, students examine the interconnected issues of substance use, healthy relationships, and sexual violence through a variety of interactive, realistic scenarios and guided self-reflection. Information about consent, bystander intervention, risk reduction, and our campus policies and reporting options are reviewed.

All new, incoming students are required to complete the course prior to the start of their first semester with us.

How do students take Think About It?

Students should check their Zagmail accounts and look for the email invitation. They will login to the Campus Clarity website to take the course. It may take up to a few hours to complete the entire course, so students are encouraged to begin early and go at their own pace.

There is no cost to students associated with the course.

We appreciate your support in encouraging your student to engage with the material.

Washington laws on underage drinking The State of Washington has serious penalties for violating the minimum legal drinking age. A person under the age of 21, who is caught possessing or consuming alcohol, can be fined up to $5,000 and could serve 365 days in jail. Even if one is unsuccessful, attempting to purchase alcohol, under the legal drinking age, is grounds for a misdemeanor charge. The maximum penalty is 90 days in jail and a $250$1,000 fine. One could also be charged with 25 hours of community service.

You do not have to be in actual possession of alcohol to be cited for an MIP. If you are exhibiting the effects of having consumed alcohol (alcohol on your breath, results of a breathalyzer test, statements by others, etc.), you may be charged with an MIP offense. The maximum penalty is one year in jail, a $5,000 fine, or both.

Using a fake ID, or an ID that has been loaned to you, is illegal and can result in a fine ranging from $250-$1,000, up to 90 days in jail and 25 hours of community service, if restitution is required.

Adults who provide alcoholic beverages to people under the age of 21 can be punished with fines or jail time. If an intoxicated minor injures their self or others, as a result of consuming the alcohol provided by an adult, the adult may face legal action.

Source: http://liq.wa.gov/education/know-the-law

Prescription Drug Misuse MORE AND MORE STUDENTS ARE ENTERING COLLEGE FAMILIAR WITH, AND USING, PRESCRIPTION DRUGS. IT IS IMPORTANT TO MONITOR THE NUMBER OF PRESCRIPTIONS YOUR STUDENT HAS FILLED AND TALK TO THEM ABOUT THE DANGERS OF TAKING OR SHARING MEDICATIONS WITHOUT PROPER DOCTOR CONSENT AND MONITORING.

What is prescription drug misuse?

Prescription drug misuse is taking a medication that was prescribed for you or another person in a manner or amount other than what was prescribed.

Students who misuse prescription drugs usually get them from someone they know – family members, friends, or acquaintances.

What are some commonly misused prescription drugs? → Opioids (OxyContin, Vicodin) → Depressants (Valium, Xanax) → Stimulants (Ritalin, Adderall)

While students may claim that the use of “study drugs,” such as Adderall, help them perform better, in reality

they perform worse. Students who use alcohol and other drugs typically spend less time studying, skip class more often, and earn lower grades.

intensify the side effects. Encourage your student to talk with a healthcare professional before taking any combination of medications and alcohol.

What could happen as a result of misusing prescription drugs?

Can’t prescription drugs help?

Before doctors prescribe medications, they take into consideration the specific reasons for the medication, the appropriate dosage, and the possible side effects. Many people who misuse drugs are not taking these things into consideration and, as a result, can experience severe symptoms and put themselves at greater risk for becoming addicted to a medication.

What are the dangers of mixing prescription drugs with alcohol?

When mixing alcohol with prescription drugs, the outcomes can be unpredictable, dangerous, and even fatal.

Each person’s body reacts differently to the combination of alcohol and other drugs and the reactions can vary, depending on the type and quantity of alcohol and medication ingested.

Alcohol interactions may decrease the effectiveness of some medications or

When prescription drugs are used under the supervision of a healthcare professional, they may help an individual to lead a healthier life. But when these drugs are used for nonmedical reasons, such as trying to gain an academic advantage, or escaping from life stressors, in can be an indicator that something is wrong. If you suspect your student is nonmedically using prescription drugs, you should seek out a comprehensive evaluation in order to determine the presence and severity of substance use disorders and/or other mental health problems.

Washington laws on marijuana

THE PASSAGE OF INITIATIVE 502 IN WASHINGTON LEGALIZED MARIJUANA USE AND POSSESSION, WITHIN SPECIFIC LIMITS, FOR PERSONS OVER THE AGE OF 21. MARIJUANA MUST BE PURCHASED FROM A STATE-LICENSED RETAILER AND IS NOT TO BE USED IN PUBLIC.

Gonzaga University upholds federal laws that prohibit the use, distribution, or consumption of marijuana by anyone, of any age. Students are informed that they are not allowed to use or possess marijuana anywhere on campus, regardless of age or medical prescription.

Do more students use marijuana because it’s legal in WA?

Despite what you might think, we have not seen any significant increases in student marijuana use with the passage of legislation in Washington. In fact, only 21% of students report any use of marijuana within the past 30 days. However, students believe that 88% of their peers have used marijuana. You can help correct this misperception by reminding your student that the majority of the campus community does not engage in this behavior.

Source: National College Health Assessment data Spring 2016

What else should I know about marijuana?

The potency, or strength, of marijuana has increased dramatically. Now that marijuana production and sales are being monitored and regulated by the state, levels of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, have been observed higher than ever before. Marijuana also comes in several forms. It may be smoked, vaporized, applied to the skin, or consumed in food or beverages.

Marijuana edibles are slow-acting; the effects can take from 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect, and may last longer than expected. As with alcohol, regular marijuana use can have significant effects on brain development, and it can become addictive. It is best to communicate a zero-tolerance policy with your student.

Collegiate Recovery Community We know that a college campus can often be a challenging place for a student in recovery from a substance use disorder.

Students in recovery are committed to their sobriety, but they may be living or interacting with peers who are focused on partying. To better serve our students in recovery, Gonzaga has a collegiate recovery program called OUR House, which stands for Our Unique Recovery.

The mission of the CRP at Gonzaga University is to foster a common, collective sense of purpose that helps students to lead meaningful lives, without alcohol or other drugs.

a safe recovery space OUR House provides the physical space for a safe, recovery-positive environment where students can get support from other students who have been through what they’ve been through. Resources include: → → → → → →

24/7 house access Weekly recovery support group meetings Social events and activities Professional development opportunities Mentorship Referrals

Learn more at www.gonzaga.edu/crc

The vision for the CRP is that, through involvement with OUR House, students in recovery will be empowered to take individual responsibility for their own health and well-being, while belonging to a community of support.

At OUR House, students in recovery, or in hope of recovery, from any background, are supported on their journeys and uplifted as valuable members of our community. We are proud to offer this resource on campus and encourage you to contact the Center for Cura Personalis at (509) 313-2227, or ccp@gonzaga.edu if your student is in recovery, or may be struggling with their alcohol or drug use.

Other Important Issues to Discuss stress, depression & anxiety

37.1% of GU students say that stress is the number one impact on their academics (NCHA 2016). At the same time, over 88% of Gonzaga students report that their health is good, very good or excellent. Some stress is a normal part of the college experience; it comes with being on your own for likely the first time, diligent effort toward academics, and managing multiple commitments. It is worrisome when students are stressed all the time, experiencing constant anxiety, or feeling like their overall moods and functioning have completely changed.

Symptoms of depression can include extended sadness, feeling empty, irritability, changes in appetite and sleeping patterns, fatigue, and in some cases, thoughts of suicide. Anxiety can often feel like excessive worrying, even about things out of one’s control or unlikely to occur, inability to concentrate, and changes in behavior. Keep in mind that anxiety and depression can have genetic components, so if anyone in your family has experienced either, this is a good time to talk about it with your student as well. It’s also important to talk about how alcohol or drug use may influence and even exacerbate the types of symptoms they are experiencing.

If your student seems to be struggling, encourage them to make an appointment with Health & Counseling Services, by calling (509) 313-4052. For those who have already encountered or been diagnosed with anxiety or depression, it is important that they continue to receive care. Health & Counseling Services has a full team of medical and mental health professionals to assist with this. They can also provide medication management and/ or referrals to off-campus providers, as needed. You can learn more at www.gonzaga.edu/healthandcounseling.

healthy relationships

Students will engage in many types of relationships during their time at GU—friendships, dating, intimate, and/or professional.

Regardless of the type, students are encouraged to engage in healthy relationships that foster a mature commitment to the dignity of both persons and are founded upon mutual respect, which aligns with the Gonzaga Mission Statement.

Healthy interpersonal relationships, especially intimate ones, are emotionally supportive relationships that align with individual values, promote identity development, refine and enhance interpersonal skills, and honor the setting of personal boundaries. We encourage you to talk with your student about how their relationships are healthy, honoring of others, and founded on respect. It’s never too late to talk with your student about what he or she wants from friendships, romantic relationships and other relationships.

suicide prevention

Members of a student’s closest support system, including family and friends, are vital in preventing suicide. Learn the warning signs at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ learn/warningsigns.aspx, and encourage students who may be struggling to reach out. Contact Gonzaga immediately if a student is showing signs or talking about suicide. In an emergency, call Campus Security at (509) 313-2222 or 911. For non-emergency situations, call the Center for Cura Personalis at (509) 313-2227 or Health & Counseling at (509) 313-4052.

Gonzaga Policy on Alcohol and Other Drugs The Student Code of Conduct, www.gonzaga.edu/ studentcodeofconduct, contains the University’s standards of conduct and the accountability processes that address allegations of misconduct. Our expectations for conduct go beyond the basic standards of society, as we actively seek to create an environment conducive to living and learning together. To support this purpose, the University has developed a response to the improper use of alcohol and drugs.

The use of alcoholic beverages must be consistent with University policies and application laws. Specifically: → Persons must be 21 years of age to acquire, possess,

or consume any alcoholic beverages.

→ It is a violation to misrepresent age and to use false or

forged documents to obtain alcoholic beverages.

The illegal use of drugs, on or off campus, by Gonzaga University students is prohibited. This includes the unlawful manufacture, possession, control, sale, transfer or use of any dangerous drug, controlled substance, experimental drug, mind-altering substance, or drug paraphernalia, or misuse or other improper use of prescription drugs.

Gonzaga University expects its students to abide by federal laws that prohibit use, distribution, or consumption of marijuana by anyone, of any age.

Visit www.gonzaga.edu/ocs for information about the University’s minimum response following improper use of alcohol and other drugs.

Gonzaga University generally notifies parents or guardians of any student, under the age of 21, at the first known violation of the University’s Drug Policy and at the second known violation of the University’s Alcohol Policy. The University may provide notifications for a first known violation of the Alcohol Policy if the University believes there are factors that necessitate such notification.

Gonzaga University expects students to perform with excellence and the Office of Community Standards urges students to respect the dignity of all members in the community, respond with honesty and integrity, and accept responsibility for their actions, while recognizing that we must balance the needs of an individual student with those of the larger Gonzaga University community.

Does Your Student Plan to Study Abroad?

If your student is excited about the opportunity to travel and attend classes in another country, remind them that it’s three strikes and you’re out!

Violations of the University alcohol or drug policy can affect their eligibility to study abroad.

study abroad disciplinary clearance:

The following students are not cleared for study abroad programs: 1. Students who are on probation or suspension, or students who are placed on probation or suspension before leaving, will have their clearance revoked.

2. Students with outstanding or overdue sanctions.

Preparing for a Conversation before you begin

when you talk

→ Assess and review your own

→ Focus on one message throughout

feelings about alcohol and other drug use. → Avoid contradictions between your words and actions. → Give yourself permission to disapprove of drinking and drug use. Dismiss any fear that your disapproval is naïve. → Recognize the power of your influence. → Be prepared to establish an ongoing conversation, rather than giving a one-time speech.

starting the conversation → Create a time and space for

face-to-face discussion. → Find “teachable moments” from television, books or newspapers that deal with substance use in college. → Make sure your student is sober.

If not, find another time to talk.

the conversation. Avoid turning your attention to other to-do items. → Speak calmly and openly. You do not need to exaggerate, the facts will speak for themselves. → Listen actively and try to understand your student’s point of view. Ask open-ended questions that prompt your student to give more information, rather than a simple “yes” or “no”. → Allow your student to express their fears or concerns without interrupting or lecturing. → Use anecdotes or brainstorm situations that your student might encounter. Discuss ways they could handle these, focusing on what would work best and why.

Talking Points

→ Be clear that you expect your student

to avoid drinking and drug use during college.

→ Refer to the campus policies against

underage drinking and other drug use.

→ Encourage your student to get involved

on campus. Plenty of opportunities exist for socializing without using substances.

→ Remind your student to take charge of

their well-being. This means prioritizing things like sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. We find that students who have good self-care practices do better overall.

→ Continue to talk with your student

about this topic after they arrive on campus. The first six weeks are a critical period for first-year students, and we encourage you to stay connected during this time. Use different communication methods (phone calls, emails, texts, FaceTime) and share information so your student still feels connected to your family.

→ Thoughtfully, explore how your student

is doing. Rather than making assumptions about their behaviors, ask about the things they’re seeing and how they are handling situations.

Substance-free Activities THERE ARE AN INFINITE NUMBER OF WAYS FOR YOUR STUDENT TO GET INVOLVED, ON OR OFF CAMPUS, THAT DO NOT INVOLVE SUBSTANCES. WONDERING WHAT ZAGS DO FOR FUN? Check out events at www.gonzaga.edu/zagtivities SPIKENITES – every Friday and Saturday in the Hemmingson Center, 10 pm-1:30 am; Free movies, dances, concerts, hypnotists, trivia, arts & crafts, video games, karaoke and low- cost late night eats!

GONZAGA ACTIVITY BOARD (GAB) WEEKEND EVENTS – Laser tag, snow tubing, movie screenings, apple picking, ScaryWood, comedy shows, plays & more! Register at https://commerce.cashnet.com/GAB GONZAGA OUTDOORS WEEKEND EVENTS – Ski trips, camping trips, Friday night rock climbing, rafting, hiking and more! All levels welcome! Register at http://commerce.cashnet.com/guoutdoors RETREATS AND CLUB EVENTS – University Ministry or the Payne Center for Leadership Development often have retreats. Clubs host events every weekend, or join in on one of our amazing cultural nights! Many student organizations host events throughout the year. Encourage your student to get involved with one of the over 100 clubs and organizations at GU. Visit www.gonzaga.edu/getinvolved to learn more.

CLUB SPORTS, ATHLETICS AND INTRAMUALS – Try out for a club sport, join an intramural team, or relax and cheer on the Zags!

CENTER FOR COMMUNITY ACTION & SERVICE LEARNING (CCASL) – CCASL provides students with meaningful opportunities to become involved in the local community through referrals to local nonprofit organizations and agencies, student-run volunteer programs, alternative break immersions, educational events, service-learning courses, and other means of public service and action. Its mission is to develop student leaders with an ethic of service and life-long thirst for social justice.

Staying Healthy EATING HEALTHY FOODS, EXERCISING AND GETTING SLEEP ARE VITAL TO OUR WELL-BEING. Undergraduates who regularly practice healthy habits—such as eating fruits and vegetables, getting enough restful sleep, participating in athletics, and getting recommended levels of exercise—report having significantly fewer, if any, mental health issues, especially depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

Undergraduates who regularly exercise and get enough restful sleep are significantly more likely to report no difficulties handling issues with academics, relationships, and family problems.

While each of us inherently knows these healthy behaviors are good for us, they can be the first thing to go when we are struggling or stressed. The same will be true for your student.

Talk with your student about exploring the many opportunities to stay physically and emotionally healthy.

Rudolf Fitness Center

The campus fitness center is open to all students, and includes facilities with weights, cardio machines, swimming pool, indoor running track, racquetball and basketball courts, and hosts numerous fitness classes such as yoga, Pilates, X-Biking, kickboxing and more. For more information, visit www.gonzaga.edu/RFC

Intramural Sports

Gonzaga’s intramural sports program includes over 30 sports and activities. In fact, Gonzaga is #2 in the nation in intramural participation, with almost 60% of students participating! To learn more about upcoming events, visit www.gonzaga.edu/intramurals

Resources Parent and Family Relations (509) 313-4154 // www.gonzaga.edu/parents Center for Cura Personalis (509) 313-2227 // www.gonzaga.edu/ccp Health & Counseling Services (509) 313-4052 // www.gonzaga.edu/healthandcounseling Campus Security and Public Safety (509) 313-2222 // www.gonzaga.edu/security Office of Community Standards (509) 313-4009 // www.gonzaga.edu/ocs

Healthy Campus 2020

Gonzaga participates in the Healthy Campus 2020 initiative sponsored by the American College Health Association. Our efforts focus on helping our students make healthy choices around their physical, mental and emotional well-being, and the support of others in making these choices. Part of these efforts are focused on the Zags Help Zags Campaign, which helps students learn how to help others who may be in need. Being a good bystander by checking in when you perceive someone needs support, is the simplest, potentially lifesaving, thing you can do, and we help students learn how to do this as part of being a member of this incredible Zag Community!

Learn more at www.gonzaga.edu/zagshelpzags.

WA Poison Center 1 (800) 222-1222 Title IX Stephanie Whaley (509) 313-6910 // whaleys@gonzaga.edu Websites: → → → → →

collegeparentsmatter.org collegedrinkingprevention.gov rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov hecaod.osu.edu learnaboutmarijuanawa.org

Parent & Family Relations 502 E. Boone Ave. Spokane, WA 99258-2464