It’s important to talk with your student about alcohol and other drug use before they come to campus. Here are some resources to help you start the conversation.
Start the Conversations
Talking with your student about substance use is important whether or not you believe your student will choose to use alcohol or other drugs.
While it is true that many students choose not to use alcohol or other drugs, your student will still be exposed to risky substance use during college. By talking with your student about the effects of alcohol, any family history of addiction, and your expectations, they will be better prepared to make informed decisions.
BU has partnered with Vector Solutions to help foster community responsibility for students’ wellbeing. Here are some online resources to help you connect with your student about substance use:
- How to talk with your student about alcohol
- How to tell if your student may be having challenges with alcohol
- How to talk with your student about drug use
Tips to Support Your Student
Start conversations now
It’s important to start conversations about substance use now, ideally before your student arrives on campus. Showing that you are open and available to talk with your student can help them feel supported to make decisions that support their wellbeing.
Talk about what’s important to them
Your student’s values are important. Ask your student about the values that are most important to them. Talk together about how substance use might impact or align with what matters to them.
Share your expectations
Discuss your expectations about your student’s class attendance, grades, safety, substance use, and their other goals.
Read the Lifebook
Review the University’s policies that are outlined in Lifebook together. Remember that decisions students make now can impact their long-term academic and wellbeing goals.
Support for Students
There are resources to help support your student if they are struggling with substance use.
Students can speak with a mental health provider about their substance use at BU Behavioral Medicine. Students can schedule an appointment at 617-353-3569.
Students who are in, or considering, recovery can reach out to the BU Collegiate Recovery Program (CRP). The CRP is a community of BU students in recovery from substance use who share the long-term goal of being alcohol and drug-free.