Be safe with drugs and alcohol
Drug use in society
The reasons for drug use in our lives are many and varied. They may be used as medicines, for improving performance, for relaxation, or for having fun. Used as medicine they can have a positive impact on our body and mind when we are sick.
The recreational use of alcohol and drugs has become culturally embedded in our social world, with many people enjoying a drink of alcohol when they are with family and friends. However, some people take drugs or alcohol as a way of coping with stress in their life and others use drugs frequently as they are addicted to them.
During your time at university you may come in contact with drugs and alcohol. It is important to be aware of the impact they can have on your health and well being and on your abilities to study effectively.
Drug use and your study
Drugs can dramatically affect your thoughts and behaviour. This includes your ability to study. Under the influence of drugs or alcohol your memory, concentration, and critical thinking are all affected. If you are finding that your drug or alcohol use is too frequent and/or you are struggling under their influence to submit work on time, this may mean you have a problem with drug or alcohol use. In such situations we strongly recommend you speak to a counsellor or your doctor.
Quick tips
- Be honest with yourself about your drug or alcohol use.
- Speak with someone, either a counsellor or your doctor, to help you stop or reduce your use drugs or alcohol.
- If you are using drugs or alcohol frequently, identify when you are least under their influence and plan to study then.
- Keep trying to quit, it may take several goes before you give up completely.
Taking it further
- The Australian Drug Foundation - If you wish to know more about drugs and their effects on you, you can read more about them at The Australian Drug Foundation.
Getting help
- Make an appointment with the Deakin Counselling Service
- Make an appointment at the Deakin Medical Centre
- Victorian Government Drug Information - If you wish to get help to stop using drugs or alcohol and you live in Victoria, you can search to find a counselling service in your area.
- Alcoholics Anonymous - Find out more and locate a meeting near you.
- Narcotics Anonymous - Find out more and locate a meeting near you.
- Odyssey House - Provides both residential treatment programs and counselling to help you stop your drug use.
