Alcohol is the most widely abused drug on American colleges and university campuses. Among young adults, regular drinking is more common than regular use of other substances. The college and university campus culture reflects the American society, and there is no surprise that alcohol and other drugs are a fact of life among college students. Our society is harmed in many ways by alcohol abuse and drug use. Some of the negative effects include decreased productivity and job performance, serious health problems, breakdown of the family structure, academic performance, personal safety, relationships with others, financial problems, emotional and physical stress, rape, violence and crime.
Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior.
Even low dosages of alcohol significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car. Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence, and at least 15-20 percent of heavy users eventually will become problem drinkers or alcoholics if they continue drinking. The abuse of illicit drugs can result in a wide range of health problems. Intense anger, restlessness, paranoia, fear Suicide Drowsiness, clouding of mental processes, slowing of reflexes and physical activity Nervous system disorders Impairment of short- term memory, comprehension and ability to perform tasks. Since alcohol is the most commonly used drug on most college campuses, the following key facts are excerpted from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Substance Abuse Prevention White Paper, Alcohol Practices, Policies, and Potentials of American Colleges and Universities, September 1991 Bulletin-Key Facts.