Recovery

3 things to know if you're interested in recovery

Valerie Padilla — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 17:42:59 +0000

3 things to know if you're interested in recovery Valerie Padilla Fri, 11/08/2024 - 10:42

Taking the first steps toward recovery may feel daunting, but it’s a journey that can also offer hope, healing and personal growth.

Whether you’re struggling with substance use, behavioral addictions or simply feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns, recovery provides a pathway forward. Recovery is about more than overcoming potentially harmful behaviors—it's about creating a fulfilling life where you can thrive.

If you’re considering recovery, this article will help you understand what recovery means, if it’s right for you and the various forms it can take. Remember, there’s no “right” way to recover. The best approach is the one that works best for you.

Here are three key things to know as you begin your recovery journey.

1. What is recovery?

Traditionally, in alcohol and drug treatment settings, recovery is associated with abstinence-based programs or 12-step groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). However, ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ’s Collegiate Recovery Community (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC) embraces a broader, more inclusive definition of recovery:

Recovery is the process of changing one's life to improve health, live a self-directed life and strive to reach one's full potential.

This approach supports multiple pathways to recovery for a variety of behaviors such as:

Alcohol and substance use

Disordered eating/eating disorders

Self-harm

Gaming

Gambling

Sex/porn

Internet/social media use

Shopping

Risk-taking

Nicotine

Steroids

Caffeine

Overworking

Other addictive or harmful behaviors

While many of these behaviors can be part of a balanced life, they have the potential to become addictive or cause significant harm when taken to extremes. This can result in compulsively repeating patterns or behaviors that result in negative consequences or experiences.

2. How do I know if recovery is right for me?

Determining whether recovery is appropriate for you is a personal experience that will require self-reflection. Consider the following questions:

Have substances or specific behaviors negatively impacted your relationships, academic or work performance, mental health or physical well-being?

Do you find yourself repeating patterns of use or behaviors that consistently lead to unwanted experiences?

Has anyone expressed concern about your behaviors or substance use?

Are you hoping to connect with a community of individuals who share similar experiences?

Do you aspire to live a healthier or more balanced lifestyle?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, exploring recovery options could be beneficial. It's important to remember that recovery is a personal journey, and the ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC is available to help you discover the path that aligns with your needs and goals.

3. What are the pathways of recovery?

Recovery is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It's a dynamic process that can take various forms depending on individual circumstances, goals and habits.

Here are some common pathways:

Harm reduction
This approach focuses on minimizing the negative consequences associated with substance use or addictive behaviors. It can be a steppingstone to other recovery pathways or a long-term strategy.

Moderation
This approach involves consciously moderating, reducing or changing your relationship with one or more substances or behaviors that have been causing harm.

Partial abstinence
This pathway involves discontinuing the use of a particular substance or ceasing a specific harmful behavior while maintaining awareness of other potentially problematic substances or behaviors.

Sobriety
This is the complete discontinuation of all substances and behaviors that cause harm. It's often associated with traditional recovery programs but can be pursued through various means, including therapy, support groups or self-directed change.

It's important to recognize that your recovery path may evolve over time as your life circumstances change or as you gain deeper insights into your habits and needs. The ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC is committed to providing community, connection and support to help you navigate these options and find a recovery approach that works for you.

Whether you're dealing with substance use issues, behavioral addictions or simply seeking a more balanced life, there are resources and communities available to support your journey.

Recovery resources

Collegiate Recovery Community (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC)
The ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC provides support meetings, events and peer-support for students, staff and faculty interested in pursuing recovery. The ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC office is also open for studying, socializing and drop-in support.

Sober housing
The ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC offers dedicated sober housing for students on the north side of campus through their CORE Housing program. This program is open to full-time undergrad and graduate students who have been accepted into the CORE membership program and have a preferred six months of continuous sobriety from all drugs and alcohol.

Whether you’re struggling with substance use, behavioral addictions or feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns, here are a few things to know about recovery.

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6 tips for a safe St. Paddy’s Day weekend

Anonymous — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

6 tips for a safe St. Paddy’s Day weekend Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 03/07/2024 - 00:00

Planning to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this weekend? Check out these tips to have a fun, safe night out.

1. Make it your own

St. Patrick’s Day is often associated with drinking, parties and pub crawls. However, there are a lot of alternative ways to celebrate the holiday. Think through what you’d like to do over the holiday weekend, and remember it’s okay if you don’t want to drink or use other substances.

If you’re not sure what to do, check out upcoming St. Patrick’s Day events on campus.

2. Have a plan in advance

Large celebrations and holiday parties can become overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to plan out your night or weekend in advance.

Here are some ways you can plan ahead.

Who’s in your group? Think through who you intend to go out with. Ensure that everyone is on the same page about where they want to go and what they want to do. Remember that it’s best to choose a group of friends that you know will take care of you, even if things don’t go as planned.
What will you do if your group gets separated? Commit to sticking together and make a plan in advance for what to do if anyone gets separated. Consider how you will meet back up, and make sure everyone knows what to do. Using the ‘share my location’ feature on your phone, in Apple Maps or Google Maps is a great way to let others know where you are. If you choose to use the built-in feature on your phone, you may want to remove permissions later on.
How will you check in with friends? Make sure that you have everyone’s phone number saved so you can start a group chat to check in with each other. Be sure to keep your notifications on and turn up your phone volume so you don’t miss calls or texts from other group members.

3. Make choices that are right for you

Whether you choose to drink or use other substances or not, you should make choices that feel right for you. This may include saying no to a large party or gathering, heading home earlier than your friends or choosing an alternative way to celebrate.

If you plan to drink or use other substances, be sure to look out for your friends and keep each other accountable. Remember that everyone has a different tolerance and limit, so it’s important to go at your own pace, regardless of what everyone else around you is doing. It can also be helpful to set a limit before you go out.

Here are some potential limits to consider.

Limit the number of drinks you have on a single night.
Avoid shots or hard alcohol.
Avoid playing drinking games like king’s cup, rage cage or beer pong.
Avoid mixing alcohol and other substances.
Avoid drinking premixed beverages. Instead, opt for unopened drinks.
Alternate between alcoholic beverages and water or other non-alcoholic options.
Eat dinner before going out.

4. Know your no

If you find yourself feeling peer pressured or in uncomfortable situations at a party, come up with ways to avoid unwanted outcomes in advance.

Here are some strategies you can use.

Fill your cup with water to avoid unwanted refills.
Let your friends know when you’re ready to leave, and ask them to make sure you get home safely.
If someone at a party is making you feel uncomfortable, enlist the help of friends to get out of sketchy situations.
Keep track of how many drinks you’ve had based on standard serving sizes (1.5 ounces of hard liquor, 5 ounces of wine or 12 ounces of beer each count as one drink).
Avoid drinking premixed beverages. Instead, opt for unopened drinks. Never leave your drink unattended.

5. Be an effective bystander

Friends and bystanders play an important role when someone is vulnerable due to their level of intoxication, or if a person has been intentionally incapacitated by drugs or alcohol. This is because people who are impaired or incapacitated are unable to advocate for and protect themselves.

While you’re out, look out for your friends and strangers at parties or other events. If you notice something that feels ‘off,’ it probably is.

Here are some ways you can help or intervene on someone’s behalf.

Be direct. In some situations, you can directly approach a person who may need help to ask them how they’re doing, what they may need and if they’d like assistance.
Relocate. In some situations, it may be more comfortable to not be direct. If this is the case, you can help by pulling someone out of a situation. For instance, if you notice someone is uncomfortable with a person hitting on them, you can pretend to be friends and invite that person to follow you to a different area before checking in with them.
Enlist the help of others. Sometimes the best strategy is to alert others to a sketchy situation. This can include asking friends or other bystanders to help you resolve a situation or help someone in need.

Learn more about effective bystander intervention

6. Be aware of overdose risks

Drinking too much and experimenting with substances can lead to alcohol poisoning or accidental overdoses.

Mixing substances: Avoid mixing drugs with alcohol, including prescription medications. Taking more than one substance at a time can increase your risk of passing out, blacking out, feeling sick, doing something you may regret later or accidentally overdosing.

Accepting drugs from friends: Counterfeit prescriptions and illicit drugs can contain lethal amounts of fentanyl, an opioid that is more powerful than heroin and morphine. This includes things like Xanax, Oxycontin, MDMA, cocaine and more. To avoid a potential overdose, avoid accepting drugs from friends, roommates, strangers or dealers. Make sure you are prepared to respond to a potential overdose at a party or gathering by bringing naloxone. This nasal spray is FDA-approved to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Students can pick up free naloxone and fentanyl test strips from Health Promotion on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.

Signs that may indicate someone is overdosing include:

Passing out or becoming unresponsive
Breathing slowly or not at all
Vomiting while passed out
Pooping or peeing involuntarily
Pale, bluish, cool or clammy
Making gurgling, wheezing or snoring sounds

ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder and ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Police have policies in place that can protect students from sanctions when they call 911 in an alcohol- or drug-related emergency.

Connect with resources

Party registration

If you or your roommates plan to host a party, be sure to register your gathering with Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations. This provides you with the opportunity to receive a warning for noise complaints and other ordinances before officers intervene.

Party smart tips

Knowing how to party smart can help keep you and your friends safe. That’s why we provide harm reduction tips related to alcohol, fentanyl, marijuana, study drugs, vaping and more. You can also review information on how to respond to an overdose, as well as protective policies like the ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ 911 Good Samaritan Law and the ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder Amnesty Policy.

Collegiate Recovery Community (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC)

The ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC provides support meetings, recovery-focused housing, events and activities, peer support and more for students in recovery or interested in pursuing recovery from drugs, alcohol, eating disorders, self-harm, other addictions and unwanted behaviors.

Early intervention workshops

Our workshops provide an opportunity for individuals and small groups to gain a better understanding of their relationship with substances and gain the skills and support for behavior change.

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)

OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling services for students, grad students, faculty and staff who have experienced a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive event, including sexual assault and harassment.

* Confidential resource

Sexual assault workshops

The Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC) provides free, discussion-based sessions where participants explore what ideas and messages influence our sexual decisions and communication. They’ll discuss consent, pleasure, the impact of alcohol on sex, and sexual assault.

Planning to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this weekend? Check out these tips to have a fun, safe night out.

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ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder programs prepare students, staff and faculty to respond to opioid crisis

Anonymous — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 15:22:32 +0000

ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder programs prepare students, staff and faculty to respond to opioid crisis Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 07/26/2023 - 09:22

While rates of illicit drug use remain low at ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder, the presence of fentanyl in ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ and across the U.S. has compounded an already dire opioid crisis. The Denver Department for Public Health and Environment reported 228 fatal overdoses, 146 involving fentanyl, in the first half of 2023 alone, representing a 16% increase over previous years.

Substance use, overdoses and fentanyl poisoning often carry stigma that makes these issues challenging to address. However, ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder recognizes the immense toll they continue to take on individuals, families and communities. That is why Health & Wellness Services has made it a priority to engage community organizations and create comprehensive, evidence-based programs aimed at educating and equipping students, families, staff and faculty to respond to the ongoing crisis.

Health & Wellness programs use an evidence-based harm reduction approach that incorporates a variety of strategies to address substance use, misuse and addiction disorders. These measures promote safety for those that use, access to recovery services and overdose education that can help reduce the number of fatal and non-fatal overdoses. Together, the following harm reduction efforts are intended to save lives, empower individuals to respond in emergency situations and address factors that may contribute to susbtance misuse.

Early intervention programs

ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder’s Health Promotion office provides a variety of early intervention programs aimed at helping students better understand substance use and signs of misuse. These programs provide structured environments that allow students to reflect on their relationship with substances, identify potentially harmful behaviors, learn harm reduction strategies and connect with support resources as needed. Workshops allow students, staff and faculty to engage with trained peers or professional staff.

The peer-led program, Buffs Discuss Substance Use, has been offered for several years. This free drop-in program connects students with trained undergraduate students at various campus locations to discuss substance use habits and how it may be impacting them at ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder. During the 2022-23 academic year, 689 students attended a Buffs Discuss Susbtance Use peer-led workshop.

Naloxone distribution

While ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder has seen few incidents related to fentanyl, we understand that overdose incidents have had significant impacts to those involved on and off campus.Health Promotion has worked over the past several years to increase access to naloxone, a life-saving drug that can reverse opioid overdoses. Recent changes to legislation and over-the-counter designations have provided our campus with an opportunity to increase distribution on campus and in the community. Health Promotion has also helped promote the use of fentanyl test strips, which can detect fentanyl in a variety of substances, including counterfeit prescriptions.

During the 2022-23 academic year, Health Promotion distributed 2,675 fentanyl test strips and 944 boxes of naloxone (equivalent to 1,888 doses). The success of this program was led, in part, by the expansion of Health Promotion’s Buff Box program, which allows students to order free health supplies delivered directly to their residence hall. During spring 2023, the team introduced a new Safer Night Out Buff Box to provide students with free fentanyl test strips, naloxone and educational information about overdose prevention. During the spring semester, Health Promotion delivered 321 Safer Night out boxes to students living on campus. The additional doses of naloxone have been distributed directly through Health Promotion’s office, which is open to all ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder community members.

Community engagement

In addition to campus-driven programs, ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder works alongside a variety of agencies and organizations across Boulder County, including Boulder County Public Health, the Substance Use Advisory Group, local law enforcement agencies and local organizations. These larger community partnerships allow our campus to share information, mobilize resources, provide timely communications and effectively respond to drug-related concerns and emergencies on and off campus.

Recovery

In the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health from 2021, 25.6% of young adults aged 18 to 25 reported having a substance use disorder (SUD). ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder is committed to supporting those who struggle with substance use through supportive, recovery-focused services that ensure our campus community can thrive.

The Collegiate Recovery Community (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC) on campus provides community, support and connection for students, faculty and staff in recovery or seeking recovery from a wide range of behaviors, including substance use and abuse. They provide a variety of recovery-focused programs, including support meetings, community meetings, substance-free social events, acudetox, recovery-focused sober housing and more. The ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC has had over 2,500 interactions with students, staff and faculty throughout the 2022-23 academic year.

Plans for the 2023-24 academic year

Health Promotion and ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder plan to continue efforts related to overdose prevention by prioritizing access to naloxone, early intervention programs, recovery support, training opportunities and campus education. By employing and expanding these programs, we hope to provide broader support for students, staff and faculty members for years to come.

ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder is committed to preparing students, staff and faculty respond to the ongoing opioid crisis. Learn more about program impact and future plans for the upcoming academic year.

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4 things everyone should know about naloxone

Anonymous — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 15:16:10 +0000

4 things everyone should know about naloxone Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 03/07/2023 - 08:16

Knowing how to use naloxone to respond to potential overdoses can save lives. Here are a few things to know about overdose prevention and naloxone availability on campus.

What is naloxone?

Naloxone is an FDA-approved medication that can temporarily reverse opioid overdoses without a prescription. Naloxone is most commonly available as a nasal spray. Depending on the type or severity of overdose a person is experiencing, one or more doses of naloxone may be needed to effectively revive them.

It’s also important to keep in mind that naloxone is safe to use, even if the individual is not actually overdosing. If in doubt, use it.

Important note: Naloxone is the generic name for this particular drug. However, many people may know it better by its brand names like Narcan, Evzio or Kloxxado.

Who should carry naloxone?

If you or someone you know uses opioid medications, plans to experiment with prescription or illicit drugs, or is at risk of an accidental overdose, they should carry naloxone.

Here are some situations that can increase a person's risk of overdose:

Unknowingly taking a counterfeit pill that contains fentanyl or other opioids
Misunderstanding the directions for use, accidentally taking an extra dose or deliberately misusing a prescription opioid
Taking opioid medications prescribed for someone else
Mixing opioids with other medications, alcohol or over-the-counter drugs
Experimenting with illicit drugs

When should you use naloxone?

Students, staff and faculty should be prepared to help a peer or stranger in the case of a potential overdose. This includes knowing the signs of an overdose and how to respond effectively.

Signs of a potential overdose

Pinpoint (small) pupils
Shallow or no breathing
Blue or grayish lips/fingernails
No response to stimulus (i.e. being pinched)
Gurgling/heavy wheezing or snoring sound

How to respond

Immediately call 911
Administer naloxone when available*
Start CPR

Note: While one dose is usually enough to bring someone temporarily out of overdose, it is safe to give multiple doses of naloxone if an individual does not respond.

Keep in mind that naloxone can be used to reverse overdoses caused by a variety of opioids, including:

Fentanyl
Oxycodone (OxyContin®)
Hydrocodone (Vicodin®)
Codeine
Morphine
Heroin

It’s important to remember that many substances and counterfeit prescriptions can contain opioids like fentanyl. Individuals who purchase these types of drugs from a dealer, friend or roommate may consume fentanyl or other opioids without even knowing it. These are typically referred to as accidental overdoses and are unrelated to substance use disorders.

Important note: Naloxone is safe to use, even if the individual is not actually overdosing. If you’re not sure whether or not someone is overdosing, use it. This can help save a life.

How is naloxone administered?

Anyone can use naloxone without medical training. Here are some simple instructions for administering naloxone:

Review package instructions
Remove the nasal spray from its packaging
Insert the tip of the nasal spray into the person’s nose
Press the release to inject the spray
Continue to monitor the person’s condition and administer additional doses if they do not respond

Once naloxone is administered it is important to put the person into the recovery position by leaning them on their side. This will prevent the person from choking if they need to throw up. Remember that one dose of naloxone may not be enough to resuscitate a person who is overdosing. It’s also important to always call 911 in case of a potential overdose emergency.

How can you get naloxone?

Naloxone is available for free and anonymously without a prescription to all students, staff and faculty at the Health Promotion front desk on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.

Students living in residence halls can also order free naloxone and fentanyl test strips online through our Safer Night Out Buff Box program. All Buff Boxes are delivered to a student’s residence hall for easy and convenient pickup.

Important note: Naloxone is also available for purchase by students, staff, faculty, families and other community members at a variety of locations.

Support resources

Collegiate Recovery Community (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC)

The ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Collegiate Recovery Community (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC) provides community, support and connection for students, faculty and staff in recovery or seeking recovery from a wide range of behaviors, including drug and alcohol addiction.

Student Support and Case Management (SSCM)

If you are concerned about a student, SSCM can initiate a wellness check and provide individualized support. SSCM case managers connect students with campus partners, community resources and support systems, while also building a trusting relationship.

How to refer a student to SSCM:

Fill out the online referral form
Call SSCM at 303-492-7348
Email the department at sscm@colorado.edu

Fentanyl information

The United States continue to see an influx of counterfeit prescriptions and other drugs containing fentanyl. Here are a few things everyone should know about fentanyl and overdose prevention.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

CAPS provides a number of services related to substance use, including assessments, brief individual therapy, support for concerned friends and family members, referrals to campus and community resources, including suboxone treatment.

Training opportunities

There are a variety of free training opportunities available to staff, faculty and student organizations, including:

The Opposite of Addiction is Connection
Overdose Prevention and Response
Recovery Panel
Recovery Allies

Exploring Substance Use Workshop

This workshop provides students with a safe, judgment-free space where students can explore their relationship with substance use. Students of all levels of use or non-use are welcome.

Boulder County Works Program

Boulder County Public Health’s Works Program is a confidential, judgment-free harm reduction program that provides free:

Naloxone
Fentanyl test strips
Overdose prevention materials
Referrals to treatment and community services
… and more!

Community members are welcome to stop by any of their locations to pick up free supplies.

Stop the Clock

Over 200 Pharmacies in ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ carry naloxone. Stop the Clock is a free tool that can help you find local pharmacies that carry naloxone.

[video:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/d7LjUz3RvV8]

Knowing when and how to use naloxone can save lives. Here are a few things to know about overdose prevention and naloxone availability on campus.

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5 winter drinking safety tips

Anonymous — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

5 winter drinking safety tips Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 01/26/2023 - 00:00

While it’s technically the beginning of spring semester, winter weather is likely to stick around for a few more months. Here are five winter tips to consider if you plan on partying or drinking this semester.

1. Stay warm

Alcohol and freezing temperatures can be a bad combination. This is because we might actually feel warmer when we’re drunk. Alcohol consumption causes our blood vessels to dilate, making our skin feel warm. This effect can give us a false sense of warmth and increase the risk of hypothermia if we spend too much time outside in cold weather.

Here are some ways to stay safe while drinking in the cold:

Wear multiple layers of clothing instead of a single heavy layer, such as a thick coat. Layers help insulate your body heat from the cold, which can help you stay drier and warmer than a single layer.
Eat high energy foods and opt for warm drinks when possible.
Beware of overexertion, including running from party to party or walking long distances to get home.
Cover areas that are most likely to suffer frostbite, including your hands, feet and ears.

2. Set your own limits

Did you know 93% of ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder students support choosing not to drink at a party?

Your limit for alcohol and other substances is probably different from those around you. Be mindful of your own limits and stick to them. You can also enlist a friend to help you stay accountable at parties. If you’re not sure how much is too much, try to only drink one alcoholic beverage per hour. This will prevent you from going too far, too fast.

Here are some other strategies you can use to avoid over-drinking:

If you’re done drinking, consider filling your cup with water to avoid unwanted refills.
If you’re ready to leave, let your friends know. It’s also okay to make an excuse to leave a party or prevent others from pressuring you to over-drink.
If someone at a party is making you feel uncomfortable, enlist the help of your friends to get out of sketchy situations.
Keep track of how many drinks you have had based on standard serving sizes (1.5 ounces of hard liquor, 5 ounces of wine or 12 ounces of beer each count as one drink).
You can use one or all of these strategies to stay safe while celebrating. You can also come up with your own strategies if these don’t feel like a good fit for you.

3. Don’t use multiple substances at once

Mixing alcohol with other substances, including prescription medications, can increase your risk of an overdose. It can also lead to unwanted consequences like passing out, blacking out, feeling sick or doing something you’ll probably regret later.

Avoid accidental fentanyl overdoses

Fentanyl (an opiate roughly 50 times more powerful than heroin) has been detected in counterfeit pills circulating Boulder County, including Oxy (i.e. M30s) and Xanax.

Fentanyl can also be mixed into other substances, including drugs like MDMA and cocaine. Assume that any drug purchased from a friend or dealer has the potential to contain a lethal dose of fentanyl.

If you choose to use illicit or prescription drugs bought off the street, carry Naloxone (brand name Narcan or Kloxxado) to help reverse accidental overdoses. Naloxone is available for free with a Buff OneCard at the Health Promotion office on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center. They also provide free fentanyl test strips.

Learn about fentanyl and how to respond to an overdose

4. Help keep your friends safe

Social events that have drugs and alcohol involved can increase the risk of harmful situations, including unwanted sexual advances and sexual assault. Help keep others safe by practicing bystander skills.

Identify high risk situations

Keep an eye on people who hit on the drunkest person at a party, encourage others to drink, try to get a drunk person alone or away from their friends, are persistent about pursuing someone sexually or commit low-level boundary violations. It’s not that people don’t understand consent, it’s that some people aren’t interested in honoring it.

Keep track of your friends

High-proof alcohol and ‘jungle juice’ increase the chances of people becoming overly intoxicated. It’s common for perpetrators of sexual assault to encourage alcohol consumption or target those who are drunk. It’s important to check in with a friend if you notice changes like difficulty standing, disorientation, etc. These signs can indicate that they’ve had too much to drink.

Don’t leave friends behind

Avoid ditching someone if they have too much to drink, even if they’re being difficult. This decreases the likelihood that someone will have to rely on less trustworthy people to get home. If you’re intoxicated and need a ride, consider using a rideshare like Lyft, Uber or ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ NightRide (free for students, staff and faculty).

Trust your instincts

If something feels weird or wrong, it probably is. If you see a situation that ever feels uncomfortable or unsafe, follow your gut. It’s okay to make up an excuse to interject or interrupt something that doesn’t seem right (e.g. you don’t feel well and need them to leave with you, you need them to check on a friend, you want them to go with you to get something to eat, etc.) to disrupt an uncomfortable or problematic situation.

Learn strategies to prevent sexual assault

5. Call for help in an emergency

Take care of your friends by watching for signs of alcohol poisoning or an overdose. Always call 911 for help in a drug- or alcohol-related emergency.

Signs to watch for:

If someone is experiencing any of the following symptoms, they may be experiencing alcohol poisoning or an overdose.

Passed out and unresponsive
Slow or no breathing
Vomiting while passed out
Involuntary pooping or peeing
Pale/bluish or cool/clammy skin
Pinpoint (small) pupils
Gurgling, heavy wheezing or snoring sound

How to respond:

If someone is experiencing symptoms of alcohol poisoning or an overdose, here are steps you should take.

Immediately call 911 and wait for help to arrive.
Make sure that the person is in a safe place to avoid injury.
Gently turn them on their side and put them in the recovery position.
Stay with them. Never leave a severely intoxicated person alone or with someone who is not a trusted friend.
Administer naloxone if available (it will not harm a person who is not experiencing an overdose, so if in doubt, use it)

Important policies to know

ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder Amnesty Policy

Calling for help in an alcohol- or drug-related emergency means neither the person who calls for help nor the person who needs help will be subject to formal disciplinary sanctions by the university (i.e., probation, suspension, expulsion).

To be covered by the Amnesty Policy, a student must:

Call for help (911 or university staff).
Stay with the individual until help arrives.
Cooperate with staff and emergency responders.

911 Good Samaritan Law

The 911 Good Samaritan Law states that a person is immune from criminal prosecution for an offense when the person reports, in good faith, an emergency drug or alcohol overdose even to a law enforcement officer, to the 911 system or to a medical provider.

This same immunity applies to persons who remain at the scene of the event until a law enforcement officer, or an emergency medical responder arrives, or if the person remains at the facilities of the medical provider until a law enforcement officer, emergency medical responder or medical provider arrives. The immunity described above also extends to the person who suffered the emergency drug or alcohol overdose event.

Additional resources

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5. Look out for others

The reality is that most sexual assaults are carried out by friends, acquaintances, partners, exes or by a person someone has met online or at a party. Pushing substances onto someone or purusing someone who is intoxicated can be a common tactic for committing sexual assault.

If you’re at a party or out with friends, it’s important to keep an eye out for sketchy situations that may indicate that someone is trying to take advantage of another person through the use of alcohol or other drugs.

Watch out for someone who is:

Coercing or pressuring someone to consume more alcohol or drugs than they are comfortable with.
Initiating sexual contact with someone because they are intoxicated and less likely to resist.
Isolating someone who has had too much to drink or is having a negative drug experience.
Not telling someone what is in their drink or the type of dosage of drug they are ingesting.

If you notice these signs, be prepared to intervene or interrupt, even if you aren’t sure your reading the situation correctly. You may need to help reconnect them with trusted friends or enlist others to help ensure they can get home safely.

Learn more about drug-facilitated sexual assault

Have fun

College can be a stressful time, and it’s important to take time to have some fun. Practicing these strategies can help you stay safe and enjoy your night out.

Party smart
Learn how to register your party, avoid citations and ways to practice safe alcohol and drug consumption.

Free substance use workshops
There are a variety of workshops and classes available to support students as they reflect on their relationship with alcohol and other substances. Here are a few workshops that are available:

Exploring Substance Use Workshop (facilitated by trained staff members)
Buffs Discuss Substance Use (facilitated by trained students)

*Workshops are not considered therapy or substance abuse treatment.

Collegiate Recovery Community (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC)
The ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC provides support meetings, recovery-focused housing, events and activities, peer support and more for students in recovery or interested in pursuing recovery from drugs, alcohol, eating disorders, self-harm, other addictions and unwanted behaviors.

The ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC is also open for studying, socializing and drop-in support. If you’re interested in participating at the Recovery Center, be sure to check out the weekly meeting schedule.

Free sexual assault workshops
The Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC) provides free, discussion-based sessions where participants explore what ideas and messages influence our sexual decisions and communication. They’ll discuss consent, pleasure, the impact of alcohol on sex, and sexual assault.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS provides a number of services related to substance use, including:

Substance use assessments
Brief individual therapy
Support for concerned friends and family members
Referrals to recovery and other community resources
Suboxone treatment

Confidential resource

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling services for students, grad students, faculty and staff who have experienced a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive event, including sexual assault and harassment.

Confidential resource

AcademicLiveCare (ALC)
ALC is a free online platform that allows students to speak with licensed healthcare providers, counselors and psychiatrists for free. They offer services related to urgent care, nutrition, anxiety, depression, substance use and other mental health concerns.

*AcademicLiveCare does not provide crisis services.

Confidential resource

While it’s technically the beginning of spring semester, winter weather is likely to stick around for a few more months. Here are five winter tips to try if you plan on partying or drinking this semester.

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Let's talk about recovery and support

Anonymous — Mon, 04 Mar 2019 16:48:49 +0000

Let's talk about recovery and support Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 03/04/2019 - 09:48

Recovery is a unique experience. Many people enter recovery because they’ve struggled with alcohol or drug use. Some have experienced other mental health concerns including depression, anxiety or eating disorders. Others have confronted compulsive behaviors related to sex, relationships, gambling, exercise, work or technology. The moral of this story: there is no one size fits all when it comes to recovery.

Sam Randall, program manager at the ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Collegiate Recovery Center (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC), is here to dive into what recovery is and how you can best support those around you who are living a life in recovery.

What the recovery process looks like

The recovery process varies depending on each person’s physical and mental health condition and history, emotional and social support and the type of change someone wants to make in their life.

For some, recovery is a natural process. The realization that things aren’t going well or that something needs to change fuels the decision to make changes and seek out support. When this is the case, it can help to have encouragement from friends and family or to talk with a counselor about how to change old patterns and reinforce positive changes. This type of recovery is often called “natural recovery”.

For others, recovery is a more intense and ongoing process. Maintaining recovery can be difficult, especially if someone is not able to reduce or stop their behaviors (drinking, using, etc.) even when they want to.

Life in recovery

We will be using recovery from a substance use disorder as an example.

For many, staying abstinent from drugs and alcohol is a big part of recovery. It enables the brain to heal and stay healthy and addresses some of the biological aspects of addiction. It also allows the person to focus on psychological and social dimensions that may be involved.

For others, moderation of use may be doable when combined with self-awareness and a good support system. It’s important to note, though, this can be risky for some. If moderation doesn’t work well, abstinence may be the best option.

Many people find that peer support is an important factor in their recovery, whether it’s through friends or recovery support meetings and sober communities. Peer support provides an opportunity to connect with others who can relate, feel motivated to continue recovery, learn new coping skills and provide support for lifestyle changes.

In addition to peer support, many also work with a mental health counselor, addiction counselor or psychiatrist, to help address deeper biological and psychosocial roadblocks. Others may go through more intensive treatment that may include detoxification and inpatient or intensive outpatient treatment. These options provide an opportunity to safely stabilize and begin the process of recovery. ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC provides students the opportunity to get help outside of the university and return to ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ after treatment in order to continue their education.

Eventually, many people find that they are living a new normal and have a fulfilling, healthy life as a person in long-term recovery. Maintaining recovery can take many forms including attending recovery support meetings, checking in with a supportive friend or seeing a counselor for ongoing therapy. It’s also important to find moments of fun through the recovery process, discover new ways to connect and feel a sense of purpose in life.

How to support a friend in recovery

If your friend is currently in recovery, support them through the process. For instance, if you’re out with friends, help them find a non-alcoholic drink without making a big deal of it.

Find activities you can do together that don’t involve substances. While some people do okay with social use, it may be difficult for others. If many of your social activities involve substances, and your friend is in recovery or trying to stay sober, it can mean a lot if you offer to do something else with them instead.

Offer to go with your friend to a recovery meeting as a support person. It can be scary to walk into a meeting when you’re newly sober or don’t know anyone, so having a friend there can help. Even if it’s not their first meeting, you can be supportive by learning more about recovery.

Trust in your friend. If they say they don’t want to drink or use, believe them. Tell them you’ll be there to support them. It takes courage for them to say it out loud, so be sure to affirm your friend’s decision.

Resources

There are a variety of support resources on and off campus for someone who might be struggling. From support meetings on campus to workshops, student groups and substance-free community events, there are a number of options for anyone looking for support.

The ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Collegiate Recovery Center (ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC) provides support for students in recovery from substance use disorders or other addictive behaviors. ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC serves as a welcoming space for those who are in recovery or living a substance-free lifestyle. There are a variety of programming options available including weekly support meetings, sober housing and more. Join a community of students who can relate and offer support. ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC is located in UMC 414.
Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers confidential mental health services for students, including workshop and therapy groups, individual counseling and psychiatric care.
Health Promotion offers an Exploring Substance Use Workshop for students to explore their relationship with substance use and discuss ways to improve their university experience. All levels of substance use and non-use are welcome.
Sober Buffs is a group of students who like to have fun without alcohol and drugs for a variety of reasons and are supported by the ŷ��ڱ��ƵCRC. They host sober social events throughout the year, including pool parties, bowling, game nights, football tailgates and more.
There are also free, peer-based recovery support groups available in the community, including 12-step programs (AA, NA, etc.), SMART Recovery, Refuge Recovery, Life Ring, Women for Sobriety, Phoenix Multisport and more.

ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ the expert

Sam Randall is the program manager for the Collegiate Recovery Center at ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Boulder and serves on the board of the Association of Recovery in Higher Education. She has worked in the field of addiction and recovery for 10 years and as an educator and mentor for over 20 years.

Having started her own recovery while at a major university, Randall is passionate about building a culture in higher education that supports recovery and well-being. She also leads creative, interactive presentations that challenge the social stigma often attached to mental health conditions and recovery and increase the likelihood that others will get help when they need it.

When not sharing about how awesome recovery is, Randall is usually out backpacking in the wilderness. She also is trained as an architect, which explains why the ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Collegiate Recovery Center has such great lighting.

There are many reasons someone may enter recovery or identify as being in recovery. Let's dive into what recovery is and how we can be supportive of those living a life in recovery.

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How to Help a Friend with Disordered Eating

Anonymous — Thu, 22 Feb 2018 20:26:33 +0000

How to Help a Friend with Disordered Eating Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 02/22/2018 - 13:26

Eating disorders can be hard to talk about. They can be even harder to talk about when you’re concerned about a friend. Starting the conversation and connecting a friend to resources is important in getting them the help need.

Read tips for talking with a friend who might be struggling, as well as where to find support.

What is an eating disorder?

Eating disorders are serious conditions that can affect one’s physical and emotional well-being. The impacts of an eating disorder can reach over into one’s work, academics, relationships and social life. They can develop because of negative self-image but can also be used as a way to regulate emotions.

If you’re concerned about a friend, having a conversation is the first place to start.

How do I share my concerns with a friend?

Early intervention is important in helping a friend recover. Here are some tips for starting the conversation:

Pick a time when you can talk to your friend one-on-one. Find somewhere comfortable and private and make sure there’s enough time for the conversation.
Take responsibility for your own feelings and use “I” statements such as “I’m concerned that ... ” or “I’m worried about you because ... ”
Avoid commenting on your friend’s weight or appearance, even positively. Comments such as, “You look great,” or “You don’t need to lose weight” can reinforce negative behaviors.

Allowing time for your friend to process and respond to the conversation can help them feel supported. Approaching the conversation mindfully and compassionately can go a long way toward getting them the help they need. If it doesn’t go as planned, it’s still important to continue to be an ally and connect them to resources.

What kind of resources are there?

Wardenburg Health Services and Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provide on-campus assessment and treatment for students struggling with issues related to eating disorders, food, weight and body image. With a multidisciplinary approach, the team helps students address psychological, medical and nutritional needs.

The Body Project is a body acceptance program that helps people resist pervasive societal standards of idealized female beauty that undermine women’s self-acceptance.

More information and resources about eating disorders also are available on the National Eating Disorders Association website.

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Is substance use affecting your relationships?

Anonymous — Tue, 02 Jan 2018 20:04:37 +0000

Is substance use affecting your relationships? Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 01/02/2018 - 13:04

Making connections with others is an important part of the university experience. Drinking alcohol or using other drugs are sometimes seen as a vehicle for socializing*. It’s helpful to consider how these might impact the relationships you want to have.

Alcohol and other drugs modify our moods and our behavior. They can cause some people to feel less inhibited or to respond differently to social cues and situations. If you choose to use them, you’re going to feel different than you do when you are not under the influence, and you may do things you otherwise wouldn’t. Whether it’s not thinking clearly or acting in ways that may be harmful to yourself or others, there are sometimes adverse outcomes from substance use.

A student shares: Substance use and relationships

Sara**, a senior here at ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ, knows firsthand how substances took a toll on her friendship and how that same friendship helped her to make a change in her life. When she was using alcohol and other drugs, she says, “I was really mean there for a couple months ... my brain wasn’t functioning well, I wasn’t eating well, I wasn’t drinking water, I would snap at others and push them away ... it wasn’t me.”

While she was using substances, she was erratic and not being the person she knew herself to be.

Checking in with a friend

Sara’s friend noticed these behaviors and recognized there might be a bigger problem. “You’ve been really isolated recently ... and I’m really worried about you,” she said.

Having her friend reach out helped Sara feel supported in making a change. She now feels healthier and more connected on a path of recovery. “It’s strengthened our relationship [to have her] there and supporting me the whole way,” she says.

Reflecting on how substance use impacts us and our relationships is a good way to explore whether there’s a problem. It can be helpful to think about actions in terms of values—do our friends’ actions align with the person we know they are? Does how you act align with who you want to be? How do you feel after an experience involving alcohol or other drugs?

If the answers to these questions suggest someone is living outside of his or her values, it might be a sign something needs to be addressed.

It’s also good to consider how often people may be using substances, or if they have difficulty stopping. If someone’s plans seem to always revolve around using or getting alcohol or other drugs it might be time to explore the free support resources and opportunities for ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ students.

Free resources and social options for students

For social opportunities that can help someone to make connections or explore interests that don’t involve substance use, check out the student organizations with the Center for Student Involvement, the Rec Center’s Outdoor Program or ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ SoberBuffs. Check out the Fri-Yay Nights, a weekly event series where people can make connections and build community while attending a variety of events.

If you’d like to talk to someone about helping a friend or yourself with substance use, peer mentors, free support meetings and recovery, coaches are available through the ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ Collegiate Recovery Center, located in UMC 414.

Counselors also are available through Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) in C4C N352, or you can drop by for an informal consultation at one of CAPS’ Let’s Talk locations across campus. CAPS also offers a Relationship Hacks workshop where students can learn skills around interpersonal relationships.

Health Promotion also offers a variety of classes to support students as they reflect on their relationship with substance use.

*It is illegal to consume alcohol or marijuana under the age of 21, to use prescription drugs if you are not the prescription-holder or to use other illegal substances.

**Name changed to protect privacy.

Making connections with others is an important part of the university experience. Drinking alcohol or using other drugs are sometimes seen as a vehicle for socializing*.

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Recovery

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ŷ���ڱ���Ƶ the expert

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How to Help a Friend with Disordered Eating

What is an eating disorder?

How do I share my concerns with a friend?

What kind of resources are there?

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Is substance use affecting your relationships?

A student shares: Substance use and relationships

Checking in with a friend

Free resources and social options for students

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ŷ��ڱ��Ƶ the expert