Message to the Faculty

Identifying/Referring Troubled Students

USA Faculty members are encouraged to be alert for opportunities to identify and help students who are experiencing problems related to alcohol and other drug (AOD) use. The Higher Education Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention (HEC), describes some specific signs related to AOD use that are common among college students. These include the following:

Acting irresponsibly. Students may be more prone to be tardy for and/or skip classes, stay out of classroom discussions, and be consistently late in turning in assignments.
Physical/psychological changes. Students with AOD problems may have the following: pattern of more frequent illnesses, decreased concern about their personal appearance, reduced emotional control, mood swings, social withdrawal, decreased attention and ability to concentrate, memory problems, lowered academic performance, and increased aggressiveness.
Maintaining that there is no problem. When challenged directly, students may deny that a problem exists. Consequently, this is not the best approach to take when dealing with this issue.
Making light of problems. Through humor, a student may treat use as temporary or as having no real significance.

HEC's Tips for Faculty Members Who Decide to Intervene

Choose a time and private place when the student is most receptive. Make sure he or she is not under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
Explain why you are talking with the person. This should be a statement that expresses your concern for the individual.
Describe the behavior that you have observed, including specifics as to time and place. Do not try to diagnose the problem.
Explain the consequences that will occur if the behavior continues.
Outline what changes are needed.

We recommend making the student aware of confidential services available through USA's Counseling and Testing Center. Offer to call and schedule an appointment at (251) 460-7980.

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