Alcohol & Other Drugs, The Wellness Center

Alcohol & Other Drug Information

Did you know that 34 percent of UNCG students do not drink? Did you know that only 21 percent of UNCG students drank to the point that they had a hangover? 58 percent of students do not drink because they feel like it will interfere with school work.

The NIAAA (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism) reports that each year 1,400 college students die from alcohol-related unintentional injuries. In addition, alcohol is involved in 500,000 unintentional injuries, 600,000 assaults, and 70,000 cases of sexual assault and acquaintance rape.

Drugs (substances) include alcohol, illicit drugs, tobacco, caffeine, and prescription and over-the-counter medications. On this website, you will find information and resources on alcohol and illicit drugs. It is important for UNCG students and employees to know about these substances, and we encourage your feedback and questions.

Tips for Responsible Alcohol Use

For students under the age of 21, it is illegal to consume alcohol. Individuals who are 21 or older may choose to consume alcohol in moderation. Excessive alcohol use can lead to substance abuse problems, including poor health, injuries, and legal problems. Choosing to drink in moderation can help to prevent these problems. In most cases, men can safely drink two standard drinks while women can drink one standard drink per day.

According to the US Department of Health and Human Services a standard drink is equal to:

  • 12 ounces of regular beer (with 0.5 ounces of absolute alcohol)
  • 5 ounces of table wine
  • or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.

Drinking Responsibly

  • Choose not to drink alcohol.
  • Eat food before drinking.
  • Pace your drinking.
  • Keep track of how many drinks you have had.
  • Set a personal limit of how many drinks you will consume.
  • Choose a drink containing a lower alcohol concentration.
  • Avoid drinking games.
  • Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or other non-alcoholic beverages.

Drinking and Driving

Do not drink and drive. If you are planning to drink, make sure that you are with a sober friend whom you trust to drive you home safely. Many of the campus Greek organizations organize shuttle services to off-campus events.

Giving a Party

North Carolina courts will hold the host responsible for drunk-driving accidents of guests who were served beer or alcohol at his/her party.

  • Have a car-key check-in to prevent guests from driving drunk.
  • Serve food. Ask the guests to bring chips, veggies, sodas (no, not for chasers), etc.
  • Close the bar (hide the beer) at least an hour (remember it takes an hour per drink to sober up) before the party ends so that your guests can sober up before they leave.
  • Let guests know that it’s okay to choose not to drink. Offer alternative beverages such as orange juice, water, or soda. It is good that you can be yourself, be sober, and learn to play and socialize and party sober.
 

Page updated: 28-Jun-2009

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Student Health Services
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Anna M. Gove Student Health Center, 107 Gray Drive 27412
Greensboro, NC 27402-6170
VOICE 336.334.5340
FAX 336.334.5343