Alcohol and Other Drug Programs

Educational presentations available to students, families, staff and faculty. They explore current alcohol and drug use trends both on a campus and national level and address current prevention and education efforts, campus policies and resources, signs of misuse/abuse and how to help students with a problem.

These online intervention programs are designed to empower students to make healthy and responsible choices.

According to a 2013 study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, one in 15 people who use prescription drugs recreationally will try heroin in 10 years. The increase of heroin use is directly related to recreational prescription opioid use (Vicodin, Oxycodone). Prescription medication abuse and misuse is a growing issue and continues to be a pressing concern in our local communities and on our college campuses. In 2014, a comprehensive, evidence-informed approach designed to proactively address the possession, distribution and misuse of prescription drugs among students at Montclair State University was proposed and implemented.

This project is a collaborative effort involving Health Promotion, Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Conduct, University Health Center, Residence Life, University Police and many other campus and community partners and will involve the strategic implementation and evaluation of campus-based strategies. The goal is to increase awareness among students about the risks and the consequences, through both the university conduct and legal systems, of prescription drug and heroin use.

In order to assess, prevent and manage University challenges related to the use of alcohol and other drugs (AOD), CAPS has developed and participates in numerous campus-based initiatives directed toward reducing high-risk alcohol and other drug (AOD) use among students. Utilizing a multi-disciplinary approach, individuals from across the campus (including faculty, staff and students) are working collaboratively to identify and support students who are at risk for alcohol and other drug abuse. CAPS provides a number of services to students who are either at risk for AOD related difficulties or who present with on-going substance-related concerns.

Current literature indicates that students tend to overestimate the amount of alcohol consumed and the amount of intoxicated behavior exhibited by their peers. This misperception creates a “false norm.” Studies conducted at Montclair State University indicate that most students have 0-4 drinks when they go out (2003-2009). The MSNP is a social marketing strategy that promotes healthier choices.

Recovery Room is an informal and confidential group for students to explore their alcohol and drug use, self-identify as recovering from alcohol and other drugs, seek recovery resources and network and support one another in a safe environment. This group is only open to Montclair State students who are currently in recovery from alcohol or other drugs, actively seeking recovery resources or interested in exploring how alcohol and other drugs impact their lives.

We also have a Recovery Program which includes Recovery Housing for students.

Using health promotion theory and social marketing principles, these campaigns aim to provide accurate health information, promote policies, identify resources and dispel myths.

Montclair State University provides a healthy and stable support structure for students in addition to their regular academic routine. There are hundreds of programs offered by various departments and student organizations that promote health and wellness and are substance free. Intentional and collaborative programming between departments encourages student involvement with activities that are substance free.

Special emphasis is placed on weekend and Thursday night programming. The Center for Student Involvement, Residence Life and the Department of Campus Recreation work together throughout the year to provide events, trips and activities for all students. This is done to encourage participation in activities that foster positive social, emotional and physical well-being.