Alcohol and Marijuana Facts

Support for SUNY Oneonta Students
Amira The Healing Space | MA Therapy, LLC

Alcohol and marijuana are two of the most commonly used substances among college students. While many students use them socially, it’s important to understand how they can affect your mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being.

For some students, occasional use can gradually become a habit that starts interfering with sleep, mood, relationships, or schoolwork. Learning the facts and knowing when to ask for support can help you stay in control of your health and goals.

How Alcohol and Marijuana Affect the Brain

Both alcohol and marijuana affect the brain’s reward system, which is responsible for feelings of pleasure and relaxation. When these substances are used frequently, the brain may begin to rely on them to manage stress, sleep, or emotions.

Over time this can lead to patterns where someone feels like they need the substance to relax, socialize, or cope with stress.

Students sometimes turn to substances when dealing with:

• academic pressure
• anxiety or depression
• loneliness or social stress
• sleep problems
• difficult life experiences

While substances may temporarily numb difficult feelings, they can often make mental health challenges worse over time.

Signs Substance Use May Be Becoming a Problem

You may want to talk with someone if you notice:

• using alcohol or marijuana more often than you planned
• difficulty concentrating on schoolwork
• missing classes or responsibilities
• needing substances to relax or fall asleep
• mood changes, anxiety, or low motivation
• friends or family expressing concern

Recognizing these patterns early can make a big difference.

Safer Drinking Tips for College Students

If you choose to drink alcohol, there are ways to reduce risks:

• eat before drinking
• drink water between alcoholic drinks
• pace yourself and know your limits
• avoid mixing alcohol with medications or other substances
• stay with trusted friends and look out for one another
• never leave drinks unattended

If someone becomes extremely intoxicated, cannot wake up, or is vomiting repeatedly, seek medical help immediately.

Alcohol Poisoning: What Every Student Should Know

Alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency that can occur when someone drinks a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time.

Warning signs of alcohol poisoning include:

• confusion or inability to wake up
• vomiting repeatedly
• seizures
• slow or irregular breathing
• pale, bluish, or cold skin
• unconsciousness or inability to respond

If someone shows these signs:

• call 911 immediately
• stay with the person until help arrives
• turn them on their side to prevent choking
• do not leave them alone to “sleep it off”

Calling for help can save a life.

When a Friend May Need Help

Sometimes students notice concerning patterns in friends before they notice it themselves.

Signs a friend may need support include:

• drinking or using substances almost every day
• frequent blackouts or sickness after drinking
• skipping classes or falling behind academically
• withdrawing from friends or activities
• becoming defensive about substance use

If you’re concerned about a friend:

• talk to them privately and without judgment
• share what you’ve noticed
• encourage them to speak with a counselor

You don’t have to handle the situation alone.

Counseling Support for Substance Use

Students who want to talk about alcohol or marijuana use can meet with a counselor for guidance and support.

Erin Samples, LMSW provides counseling support for students navigating concerns related to alcohol or marijuana use. Conversations may focus on understanding patterns of use, developing healthier coping strategies, and reducing or changing substance use if it is interfering with well-being.

Students may also schedule with any clinician at Amira The Healing Space.

Schedule with Erin Samples, CASAC here:
https://amirathehealingspace.as.me

Additional Recovery and Support Resources

Many students find peer support helpful while working toward healthier habits.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
https://www.aa.org

AA Meeting Guide App
https://www.aa.org/meeting-guide-app

Marijuana Anonymous (MA)
https://marijuana-anonymous.org

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
https://na.org

These organizations offer free support meetings, many available online and anonymously.

Support for SUNY Oneonta Students

College can bring new freedoms, pressures, and social environments where substance use is common. If alcohol or marijuana use is affecting your well-being, relationships, or academic focus, support is available.

SUNY Oneonta students can schedule free virtual counseling sessions through Amira The Healing Space.

Schedule here:
https://amirathehealingspace.as.me

Reaching out for support is a strong and proactive step toward protecting your health and your future.