Alcohol and drugs
Enjoy your time at university – without regret. Social activities can often involve alcohol and you may feel pressured into taking drugs or drinking heavily in order to fit in. Make sure your choices are informed.
Excessive drinking or using any kind of drugs (including so called 'study' drugs) carries risk. It can affect your personal safety, your health, your academic performance and it can also impact on others.
You also have a responsibility for the safety of people around you. Drugs that are unregulated are unpredictable. Misusing prescription drugs, taking psychoactive substances or consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can result in:
- reduced inhibitions and impulsive behaviour
- fits, agitation, hallucinations or paranoia
- unconsciousness and amnesia
- altered heart rate or abnormal breathing
- depression or mood swings
- addiction and, in some cases,
- death.
Consequences
Substance misuse contributes to unacceptable behaviour which may result in disciplinary action under University of York Regulation 7. You could be suspended, asked to leave or even reported to the police.
How can I help myself?
The NHS recommends that you limit drinking to 14 units of alcohol a week, and you should avoid drinking them all at once. Be aware of how much alcohol is in your drinks.
If you are concerned that you or someone else may be addicted to alcohol or drugs, please see our information on addiction.
