|
Alcohol Information |
|
|
|
Consequences of Alcohol Misuse
|
|
Although most students at the University make healthy choices regarding the use
of alcohol, there are a number of students who do drink too much or use alcohol
in such a way as to cause consequences for themselves and others. These
consequences include poor grades, sexual assault, injuries and accidents, and
alcohol poisoning.
|
|
Alcohol Overdose
Alcohol, when used in moderation, has few serious consequences. However, when
used in excess, a person can put himself or herself at risk for alcohol
poisoning or overdose. Too much alcohol in a short amount of time can cause
vital organs such as the heart and lungs to slow down and even stop, which
results in death. Very often someone who dies from alcohol poisoning passes out
and was allowed to “sleep it off.” This is a mistake. Anyone who drinks so much
that they are become unconscious should receive immediate medical attention.
A person who’s blood alcohol level gets to about
.3 (11 drinks in two hours for a 120 pound woman and 13 drinks in two hours for
a 150 pound man) is very likely to fall into a coma and could eventually die or
experience serious health consequences.
More information about alcohol overdose and warning signs:
www.bhs.umn.edu/alcohol/alcoholoverdose.htm
|
|
Alcohol and Academics
Alcohol can have a big impact on a student’s ability to succeed academically.
According to a 1992 survey by the CORE Institute of more than 50,000 college
students from across the country,“A” students averaged about 3 drinks per
week,
“B” students averaged about 5 drinks per week,
“C” students averaged about 7 drinks per week and
“D” & “F” students averaged about 11 drinks per week.
Students who misuse alcohol report missing more classes and performing poorly
on an assignment or exam more often than those who chose to drink responsibly or
not at all. In addition, there is research which indicates that a person’s
ability to think critically can be impaired for up to 30 days following the
consumption of alcohol.
More Information: www.edc.org/hec/pubs/factsheets/fact_sheet2.html
|
|
|
|
Alcohol and Sexual Assault
The majority of sexual assaults that are experienced by college students are
acquaintance or “date rapes.” The majority of those sexual assaults involve the
use of alcohol on the part of the perpetrator or the victim/survivor. Alcohol
can impair a person’s judgment and make it difficult for two people to
communicate about what they want and do not want to do sexually. If a person is
intoxicated, they cannot legally give their consent to have sex.
More Information: www.edc.org/hec/pubs/factsheets/fact_sheet1.html
|
|
In addition to the use of alcohol, there has recently been a marked increase in
the use of drugs such as GHB and Rohypnol to facilitate a sexual assault. These
drugs are odorless and tasteless and can be easily dissolved in a drink. These
drugs can result in a loss of inhibition, unconsciousness, and the inability to
remember events that took place while under the influence.
More information about Rohypnol and GHB prevention and
warning signs: www.bhs.umn.edu/alcohol/rohypnol.htm
|
|
Alcohol and Violence
Because of its impact on judgment and emotions alcohol use can often result in
acts of violence, including sexual assaults, hate crimes, and fighting.
According to a variety of surveys, between 50% and 80% of violence on college
campuses is alcohol related. |
|
Related Links |
|
Alcohol Presentations For U of MN
Students |
|
Where To Go For Help With A Drinking
Problem |
|
Electronic Check-Up To Go (E-CHUG) -
Assess Your Alcohol Use |
|
Health Topic - Alcohol Information |
|
|
