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 2017 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 2017)
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. 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. 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 oneon-one with a facilitator to examine their alcohol use. Students will engage in a self-reflective process whereby they will independently choose to make changes to their drinking. IMPACT – Impact is another one-on-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. P.E.E.R.S. (PEOPLE EXPLORING EXPERIENCES REGARDING SUBSTANCES) – 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.
Zag Into Action Requirement Gonzaga University is pleased to offer Zag into Action as Zag into Action part of our commitment to fostering a safe and healthy Deadlines: community. Zag into Action Students entering in the is an innovative and engaging fall DUE late August 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 Zag into Action?
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 State Liquor Laws → It is unlawful for any person to sell, give, or otherwise supply liquor to any person under the age of twenty-one years or permit any person under that age to consume liquor on his or her premises or on any premises under his or her control. → It is unlawful for any person under the age of twentyone years to possess, consume, or otherwise acquire any liquor. → It is unlawful for a person under the age of twenty-one years to be in a public place, or to be in a motor vehicle in a public place, while exhibiting the effects of having consumed liquor. Did you know? You may be charged with an MIP (Minor in Possession) if you exhibit the effects of alcohol consumption. You do not have to be in possession of alcohol. Thinking about getting a False ID? In the State of Washington, it is illegal to possess an ID not belonging to you, give or loan an ID to another person for the purpose of purchasing alcohol, or to forge alter, or manufactural false identification to supply to persons under 21. Source: https://lcb.wa.gov/education/alcohol-andmarijuana-education, RCW 66.44.270, RCW 66.20.200
Prescription Drugs on Campus MANY STUDENTS ENROLLING AT GONZAGA REQUIRE PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN THEIR HEALTH. AS YOUR STUDENT TRANSITIONS TO GU, IT IS IMPORTANT TO DISCUSS HOW THAT MEDICATION MANAGEMENT MAY CHANGE.
How will your student maintain their medications? Taking medications as prescribed is incredibly important. Now that your student will be in Spokane, we recommend that you and your student work together to develop a plan for how they will continue to get those medications prescribed. Perhaps they will see a provider when they come home for breaks. Maybe it’s better for your student’s specific situation to transfer that medication management to a physician at Health & Counseling Services or another provider in Spokane. Review how to get those prescriptions filled at the pharmacy and make sure your student has a copy of their prescription drug or health insurance card—we suggest taking a photo with their phone.
How should medications be stored on campus? We don’t have specific requirements for keeping medications on campus, but we strongly recommend that the student always keep the medications in their original bottles with their name clearly on the bottle. We also recommend that the student secure these medications with other valuable items they may have. While theft of a prescription medication is very rare at Gonzaga, we do know that certain medications (such as stimulants and opioids or pain medications) are more popular for misuse and it’s important that the student keep those secured.
How will your student stay safe while using prescription drugs? As your student explores their freedom as a new college student, they may decide to explore alcohol or other substances. They may stop taking the medication regularly or consider sharing a medication with a friend. They may also decide to try a prescription drug that was prescribed to a friend. These decisions can have significant impact
on your student’s health. The outcome of such behaviors can be unpredictable, dangerous, or even fatal. We encourage you to talk frankly about prescription drugs and how to stay safe and healthy when taking medications that have been prescribed to them.
Washington State Cannabis Law
WHILE THE PASSAGE OF INITIATIVE 502 LEGALIZED CANNABIS USE AND POSSESSION, WITHIN SPECIFIC LIMITS, FOR PERSONS OVER THE AGE OF 21, GONZAGA UPHOLDS AND EXPECTS ITS STUDENTS TO ABIDE BY FEDERAL LAWS THAT PROHIBIT USE, DISTRUBUTION, CONSUMPTION OF CANNABIS BY ANYONE OF ANY AGE.
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 cannabis because it’s available for purchase from state-licensed retailers?
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 cannabis?
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; reactions 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 influences mental health conditions and has contributed to student hospitalizations. 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.
Mental Well-Being & Healthy Relationships stress, depression & anxiety
More than 88% of students at Gonzaga University report that their health is good, very good or excellent. Even in good health, we know that 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 when students are stressed all the time, experiencing constant anxiety, or feeling like their overall moods and functioning have completely changed that is worrisome. We recommend talking with your student about these concerns. Remind them that they are not the only student who is struggling or consider sharing a time that you experienced stress or failed at something and how you worked to overcome that. Refer them to University resources. 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 the Health & Counseling Services, by calling 509-313-4052 or the Center for Cura Personalis at 509-313-2227. 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 can also assist in navigating your student to the best resource based on their needs. You can learn more at www.gonzaga. edu/healthandcounseling and www.gonzaga.edu/ccp.
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 students about what they want 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 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 nonemergency situations, call the Center for Cura Personalis at 509-313-2227 or Health and Counseling at 509-313-4052. Gonzaga University is part of The JED Foundation Campus Program to enhance student mental health and prevent suicide. Learn more at www.thecampusprogram.org.
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.
PAUSE, REFLECT, & GUIDE so I can PAUSE, REFLECT, & DECIDE You empower your Zag by listening... WHEN I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO, ASK ME…
WHEN A DECISION I MADE DOESN’T FEEL RIGHT, ASK ME…
WHEN A DECISION I MADE HAS CONSEQUENCES, ASK ME…
What is the challenge?
Are you speaking the truth?
What happened?
What are possible solutions?
How are your actions in alignment with your values?
What were you thinking of at the time?
What would be the effects of each solution?
What have you thought about since? Is your “critical voice” barking orders at you?
Which of those effects is more desirable from a practical, personal, ethical, or legal point of view?
How is the answer to “who are you?” what you do?
How will you know when one choice is better than another? What informs that decision?
Do you wish you were doing something different from what you are doing now? What is that?
Who has been affected by what you have done? In what way have they been affected? What do you think you need to do to make things right? How are you going to make it right?
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 STUDENT BODY ASSOCIATION (GSBA) WEEKEND EVENTS – Laser tag, snow tubing, movie screenings, apple picking, ScaryWood, comedy shows, plays & more! Register at https://commerce.cashnet.com/GSBA 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 ENGAGEMENT (CCE) – CCASL provides students with meaningful opportunities to become involved in the local community through referrals to local nonprofit organizations and agencies, studentrun 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
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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