New Living Community Supports Success for Students in Recovery
For students struggling to recover from alcohol or drug abuse, college life can be especially stressful. A new substance-free living community, Residents in Recovery, gives students the academic and recovery support they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
A 2015 New Jersey law mandated that public institutions of higher education establish substance abuse recovery housing programs by 2019. “We are implementing a program before the law takes effect because we believe that offering students the support they need to lead a positive lifestyle is critical to their success,” says Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life Karen L. Pennington.
The Residents in Recovery living community is an environment in which students don’t have to worry about the possibility of being exposed to drugs or alcohol. It is a nurturing and supportive community that considers the whole student when addressing the physical, social, emotional, intellectual, financial and spiritual dimensions of wellness by offering hands-on advising and programs on stress, sleep, nutrition, sexual health, alcohol and drugs, and activities such as yoga and meditation.
On-campus recovery services and programs are available to all students who need support – whether they live on or off campus. University Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers assessment, counseling, recovery coaching and groups for students, while Exploring Change and Health Options (ECHO) provides strategies to help students change their relationship with substances.