Candace Chambers and
Mary Thompson
Blue & White Flash / Staff Writers
Songs such as “Because I Got High” by Afroman and “Blame It (On the Alcohol)” by Jamie Foxx, glamorize the effects of drug and alcohol abuse. Because of these media influences and others, it is essential to be aware of the risks of the improper use of drugs and alcohol.
The Latasha Norman Center for Counseling and Disability Services presented an outreach presentation, “Let’s Talk. Say No to Drugs & Alcohol,” on Oct. 1. The center is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center.
The presentation, conducted by Terrance Johnson, a therapist at the center, emphasized that alcohol and drug use can be a gateway during or after traumatic experiences, such as domestic violence, death, and loads of stress. The substances are often easily accessible by college students.
Johnson warned against partying and clubbing alone. He also advised students to use the buddy system because it becomes more dangerous when a person is alone in the event of intoxication. He encouraged students to know who is making the alcoholic drink and the ingredients mixed into it.
Common items that are being wrongfully used to induce intoxication include: bath salts, mouthwashes such as Listerine, pain killers, antibiotics, glue, permanent markers, spray paint, and household cleaning supplies.
“Molly,” a new form of the drug, Ecstasy, is a mix of plant fertilizer and synthetic fertilizers. It is the purest form of the drug MDMA (methylenedioxy and methyl amphetamine) in a powder or crystalline form. There is no explanation for the name; perhaps it was chosen for its simplicity, like the drug name, Mary Jane.
A number of consequences can be a result of improper use of drugs and alcohol. For example, the use of marijuana is illegal. If a person dies as a result of an intoxicated driver, the driver can be charged with vehicular manslaughter. An expectant mother, who continuously drinks, puts her baby at risk for deformity and fetal alcohol syndrome.
On the JSU homepage, students can anonymously report the use of illegal or prescribed drugs by clicking the Red Flag link, if they fear their safety or are in danger.
Services at the Latasha Norman Center are available for individuals and couples, along with group and relationship sessions.
Johnson also emphasized the importance of students utilizing the services provided.
“The campus culture is changing every year. With each population, different issues and problems arise. Students need to know their options and the resources that are available,” said Johnson.
He stressed the seriousness of being proactive rather than reactive.
“It’s important to know the services to prevent before it’s a problem,” Johnson added.
The next outreach presentation on drug and alcohol prevention will take place on Oct. 4 in Alexander East Residence Hall.
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