Drug and

Alcohol Abuse
Prevention
Handbook
 FOREWARD

Grayson College recognizes that the illicit use of drugs and/or the abuse of alcohol are a
persistent health problem of major proportion affecting our society physically, mentally, and
socially.
Illicit drug use and /or alcohol abuse can adversely affect an individual’s personal life, safety,
health, and mental and physical performance.
It is the intent of GC to provide employees and students pertinent information related to illicit
drug use and/or alcohol abuse in an effort to prevent such harm.
GC is committed to promoting and maintaining a work and academic environment that is free
from illegal alcohol and drug use and abuse, in accordance with all federal, state, and local laws.
Students, employees, and visitors are prohibited from possessing, consuming, manufacturing,
dispensing, or being under the influence of alcohol/illegal drugs or engaging in improper self-
medication while on college property or college business.
Any member of the college community who violates this policy is subject to both prosecution
and punishment under federal, state, and local laws to disciplinary proceedings by the college.
This alcohol/drug policy is not designed to punish people for seeking rehabilitation. All
information about those individuals who voluntarily avail themselves of drug or alcohol
counseling or rehabilitation will not be used as a basis for disciplinary action or be used against
an individual in any way.
College employees and students who violate the alcohol/drug policy shall be informed about and
referred to services to assist them in determining whether they are abusing drugs and alcohol or
are chemically dependent. If a problem is found to exist, the individual will be referred to
resources to assist him/her in overcoming the drug or alcohol abuse pattern.
The college will review its Drugs and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program every two years to
determine its effectiveness and implement changes to the program as needed and to ensure that
the disciplinary sanctions applied by the college consistently enforced.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
GRAYSON COLLEGE ........................................................................................................................................ 1

ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION PROGRAM ......................................................................... 1

Alcohol and Other Drug-Free Prevention and Policy Statement .......................................................................... 1

STANDARD OF CONDUCT: STUDENT ........................................................................................................... 2

Alcohol .............................................................................................................................................................. 2
Controlled Substance.......................................................................................................................................... 2
Exception ........................................................................................................................................................... 2
Violations........................................................................................................................................................... 2

EMPLOYEE WELFARE..................................................................................................................................... 3
Drug-Free Awareness Program .......................................................................................................................... 3
Employee Responsibility ..................................................................................................................................... 3

STANDARD OF CONDUCT: EMPLOYEE ....................................................................................................... 4

Violations........................................................................................................................................................... 4
Alcohol and Drugs ............................................................................................................................................. 4
Exceptions.......................................................................................................................................................... 5

EMPLOYEE STANDARDS OF CONDUCT ...................................................................................................... 5

SEARCHES AND ALCOHOL/DRUG TESTING............................................................................................... 5

Reasonable Suspicion Searches .......................................................................................................................... 5

ALCOHOL AND DRUG USE POLICY .............................................................................................................. 6

GC STUDENT DISCIPLINE AND PENALITIES .............................................................................................. 7

Penalties for Student Misconduct ........................................................................................................................ 7
Suspended or Expelled Students .......................................................................................................................... 7
Disciplinary Record ........................................................................................................................................... 8

CONSEQUENCE OF ABUSE ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF ILLICIT DRUGS AND ALCOHOL .... 9

LEGAL SANCTIONS: ALCOHOL, TEXAS STATUES .................................................................................. 10

Underage Drinking Laws.................................................................................................................................. 10
Penalties for Providing Alcohol to a Minor ....................................................................................................... 10
Zero Tolerance Law ......................................................................................................................................... 10

LEGAL SANCTIONS: ILLICIT DRUGS, TEXAS STATUTES ...................................................................... 12

SELF-ASSESSMENT......................................................................................................................................... 18

RETHINKING DRINKING BOOKLET ........................................................................................................... 19

HEALTH RISKS ................................................................................................................................................ 20

Health Risks Associated with Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse ............................................................................ 20
Associated Health Risks with Illicit Drug Use and Tobacco Products ................................................................ 20

COUNSELING, TREATMENT PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES ................................................................ 22

Referral Services .............................................................................................................................................. 22
Resources......................................................................................................................................................... 22
Additional Resources ........................................................................................................................................ 23

POLICY DISSEMINATION.............................................................................................................................. 24

DRUG AND ALCOHOL ADDICTION SOURCES .......................................................................................... 25

 GRAYSON COLLEGE
ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION PROGRAM
Alcohol and Drug-Free Environment

Alcohol and Other Drug-Free Prevention and Policy Statement

It is the policy of Grayson College Board of Regents to comply with the Drug-Free Workplace
Act of 1988. Grayson College is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, lawful, and
productive working and educational environment for its students and employees. Studies have
shown that excessive use of alcohol and use of illegal drugs and controlled substances increases
the potential for accidents, absenteeism, tardiness, unsatisfactory performance, inefficiency, poor
employee morale, and damage to the College’s reputation.

The intent of this policy is to make Grayson College a better place to study and work through
upgrading the mental and physical health of the total College community. It acknowledges the
freedom of choice for those individuals who require or seek assistance and/or referral. The intent
is not to restrict individual freedom but rather to encourage students and employees, principally
through education and information efforts, to make intelligent choices about drugs, controlled
substances, and alcohol use and abuse. As caring and concerned educational leaders,
administrators, faculty, and supervisors must exercise sound and reasonable judgment when
administering this policy. The appropriate Vice President is expected to supervise the
enforcement of this policy while protecting the rights of individual students, employees, and
other personnel.

The National Drug Control Strategy, issued in September 1989, proposed that the US Congress
pass legislation requiring schools, colleges, and universities to implement and enforce firm drug
prevention and education programs as a condition of eligibility to receive federal financial
assistance. In keeping with the requirements of the US Department of Education’s Drug-Free
Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, and Drug-Free Workplace of 1988,
Grayson College presents the following information to all of its students and employees:
1. The Grayson College standards of conduct regarding the possession, use, and
distribution of alcohol and drugs.
2. The Grayson College disciplinary sanctions for students and employees in violation of
the standards of conduct.
3. A description of the legal sanctions under local, state, and/or federal law.
4. A description of the health risks associated with drug and alcohol abuse.
5. A description of the drug and alcohol counseling and treatment resources available to
Grayson College students and employees.

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 STANDARD OF CONDUCT: STUDENT
GC Policy FLBE (Local)
Alcohol

A student shall be prohibited from using or being under the influence of intoxicating beverages
in classroom buildings, laboratories, auditoriums, library buildings, museums, faculty and
administrative offices, intercollegiate and intramural athletic facilities, and all other public
campus areas. With the consent of the Board or the Board’s designee, the provisions herein may
be waived with respect to any specific event that is sponsored by the College District. State law
shall be strictly enforced at all times on all property controlled by the College District in regard
to the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Controlled Substance

No student shall possess, use, transmit, or attempt to possess, use, or transmit, or be under the
influence of, any of the following substances on College District premises or off premises at a
College District-sponsored activity, function, or event:
1. Any controlled substance or dangerous drug as defined by law, including but not
limited to marijuana, any narcotic drug, hallucinogen, stimulant, depressant,
amphetamine or barbiturate.
2. Any abusable glue, aerosol paint or other volatile chemical substance for inhalation.
3. Any performance-enhancing substance, including steroids.
4. Any designer drug.
5. Any other intoxicant or mood-changing, mind-altering, or behavior-altering drug.

The transmittal, sale or attempted sale of what is represented to be any of the above-listed
substances shall also be prohibited under this policy.

Exception

A student who uses a drug authorized by a licensed physician through a prescription specifically
for that student’s use shall not be considered to have violated this rule.
Violations

Students who violate this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. [See FM and
FMA] Such disciplinary action may include referral to drug and alcohol counseling or
rehabilitation programs or student assistance programs, suspension, expulsion, and referral to
appropriate law enforcement officials for prosecution.
Notice

Each student taking one or more classes for any type of academic credit except for continuing
education units shall be given a copy of the College District’s policy prohibiting the unlawful
possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol, a description of the applicable legal
sanctions under local, state, or federal law, and a description of the health risks associated with
the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol.

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 EMPLOYEE WELFARE
GC POLICY DI (Local)

Drug-Free Awareness Program

The College District shall maintain a drug-free environment and shall establish, as needed, a
drug-free awareness program complying with federal requirements. [See DH] The program
shall provide applicable information to employees in the following areas:
• The dangers of drug use and abuse in the workplace.
• The College District’s policy of maintaining a drug-free environment. [See
DH(LOCAL)]
• Drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs that are available in
the community, if any.
• The penalties that may be imposed on employees for violation of drug use and abuse
prohibitions.

Employee Responsibility

All fees or charges associated with drug/alcohol abuse counseling or rehabilitation shall be the
responsibility of the employee.

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 STANDARD OF CONDUCT: EMPLOYEE
GC Policy DH (Local)

All College District employees shall perform their duties in accordance with state and federal
law, College District policy, and ethical standards.
All College District personnel shall recognize and respect the rights of students, other
employees, and members of the community and shall work cooperatively with others to serve the
best interest of the College District.
Employees wishing to express concern, complaints, or criticism shall do so through appropriate
channels. (See DGBA)
Violations

Employees shall comply with the standards of conduct set out in this policy and with any other
policies, regulations, and guidelines that impose duties, requirements, or standards attendant to
their status as College District employees. Violation of any policies, regulations, or guidelines
may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment. [See DCC and DM
series]
Alcohol and Drugs

A copy of this policy, the purpose of which is to eliminate drug abuse from the workplace, shall
be provided to each employee at the beginning of each year or upon employment.
The use, possession, and/or distribution of controlled substances that are not medically necessary
and prescribed by a licensed physician shall be prohibited on campus. Furthermore, it is the
policy of the College District that employees shall not unlawfully manufacture, distribute,
dispense, possess, use, or be under the influence of any of the following substances during
working hours while at the College District or at College District-related activities during or
outside of usual working hours:
1. Any controlled substance, illegal drug, or dangerous drug as defined by law, or this
policy, including but not limited to marijuana, hashish, any narcotic drug,
hallucinogen, stimulant, depressant, amphetamine, cocaine, PCP, LSD, heroin,
dilaudid, quaaludes, or methamphetamines.
2. Alcohol or any alcoholic beverage.
3. Any abusable glue, aerosol paint, or any other chemical substance for inhalation.
4. Any other intoxicant, or mood-changing, mind-altering, or behavior-altering drugs.

An employee need not be legally intoxicated to be considered “under the influence” of alcohol, a
controlled substance, or an illegal drug.
The College District recognizes that alcoholism and drug and/or controlled substance
dependency are illnesses and disorders. The College District shall seek to provide channels of
referrals for help, but it shall be the student’s or employee’s responsibility to seek help.
An employee shall be prohibited from reporting to work under the influence of alcohol, illegal
drugs, or controlled substances.

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 Exceptions

An employee who manufactures, possesses, or dispenses a substance listed above as part of the
employee’s job responsibilities, or who uses a drug authorized by a licensed physician prescribed
for the employee’s personal use shall not be considered to have violated this policy.
The College President is authorized by the Board to permit the possession and consumption of
alcoholic beverages in accordance with state and federal laws at special events and/or golf
tournaments. The use of College District facilities for this purpose shall require the completion
of an application, as well as written approval from the College President prior to the event.
The Board designates the T.V. Munson Viticulture and Enology Center, the Grayson County
College Foundation Ivanhoe Winery, and other facilities as locations where, in conjunction with
instructional purposes associated with the Viticulture/Enology curriculum, possession and
consumption of alcoholic beverages is approved only in the form of partially fermented grape
juice and wine in accordance with state and federal laws.

Notice

Each employee shall be given a copy of the College District’s notice regarding a drug-free
workplace. [See DI(EXHIBIT)]

EMPLOYEE STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

SEARCHES AND ALCOHOL/DRUG TESTING
GC Policy DHB (Local)

Reasonable Suspicion Searches

The College District reserves the right to conduct searches when the College District has
reasonable cause to believe that a search will uncover evidence of work-related misconduct. The
College District may search the employee, the employee’s personal items, work areas, lockers,
and private vehicles parked on College District premises or worksites or used in College District
business. Searches that reveal a violation of the College District’s standards of conduct may
result in disciplinary action. [See DH]
For more information on the provisions that applied to employees who are covered by the
Federal Department of Transportation, see the complete GC Policy DHB (Local)

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 ALCOHOL AND DRUG USE POLICY

Grayson College complies with the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act
Amendment of 1989 and the Drug-Free Work Place Act of 1988. The statement provided below
represents the Grayson College policy with regard to the abuse and/or distribution of alcohol,
drugs, and chemicals by students, faculty, and staff.
Grayson College is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, lawful and productive working and
educational environment for its students and employees. Studies have shown that excessive use of
alcohol and use of illegal drugs and controlled substances increases the potential for accidents,
absenteeism, tardiness, unsatisfactory performance, inefficiency, poor employee morale, and
damage to the College’s reputation. The intent of this policy is to make Grayson College a better
place to study and work through upgrading the mental and physical health of the total College
community. It acknowledges the freedom of choice for those individuals who require or seek
assistance and/or referral. The intent is not to restrict individual freedom but rather to
encourage students and employees, principally through education and information efforts, to
make intelligent choices about drugs, controlled substance, and alcohol use and abuse. As
caring and concerned educational leaders, administrators, faculty, and supervisors must
exercise sound and reasonable judgment when administering this policy. The appropriate vice
president is expected to supervise the enforcement of this policy while protecting the rights of
individual students, employees, and other personnel. Reason and common sense must be
guidelines in the execution of the policy.
1. Definition of legal drugs: A “legal drug” is a prescribed drug or over-the-counter drug
which has been legally obtained and is being used for the purpose for which it was
prescribed or manufactured.
2. Definition of illegal drugs: An “illegal drug or controlled substance” is any drug or
controlled substance which is (1) not legally obtainable or (2) is legally obtainable but
was not legally obtained. Illegal drugs include, but are not limited to marijuana,
hashish, cocaine, PCP, LSD, heroin, Dilaudid, Quaaludes, and methamphetamine.

Please visit the links below for further details and outlines of discipline and penalties.

• Student Handbook:
http://www.grayson.edu/_files/documents/Student%20Handbook%202016.pdf
• Annual Security Report: http://www.grayson.edu/campus-life/campus-
police/ASR%202016.pdf
• Residence Hall Handbook: http://www.grayson.edu/campus-
life/housing/Residence%20Hall%20Handbook_2016.pdf

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 GC STUDENT DISCIPLINE AND PENALITIES
GC Policy FM (Local)

Grayson College will impose sanctions for failure to maintain standards of conduct regarding
illicit drug use and/or alcohol abuse as may apply to students and/or employees consistent with
local, state and federal laws, up to and including expulsion from school or termination of
employment and referral for violations of the standard of conduct.
Penalties for Student Misconduct

A student shall be subject to discipline for violations of College District policies and procedures,
including the rules outlining expectations for student conduct [see FLB]. If a student commits an
infraction or engages in misconduct, the College District may impose one or more of the
following penalties:
• Reprimand - A verbal or written warning to the student following a rule violation.
Repetition of such misconduct may result in more severe disciplinary action.
• Restitution - Reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation of property.
Reimbursement may take the form of appropriate service to repair or otherwise
compensate for damage.
• Conditional Probation - The placing of a student on notice that continued infraction of
regulations may result in suspension or expulsion from the College District.
Conditional probation may include restrictions on a student’s rights and privileges or
specified community service. The probation may be for a specified length of time or
for an indefinite period according to the relative severity of the infraction or
misconduct. Failure to fulfill the terms of the probation may lead to suspension or
expulsion.
• Suspension - Forced withdrawal from the College District for either a definite period
of time or until stated conditions have been met. Normally, the suspension shall
extend through a minimum of one regular long semester (with summer sessions not
counting in the one-semester minimum time lapse). However, the suspension may
exceed the one-semester minimum.
• Expulsion - Permanent forced withdrawal from the College District. A student
receiving disciplinary expulsion shall have the action noted in the student’s
permanent record.

Suspended or Expelled Students

No former student who has been suspended or expelled from the College District for disciplinary
reasons shall be permitted on the campus, or other facilities of the College District initiated into
an honorary or service organization or permitted to receive credit for academic work done in
residence or by correspondence or extension during the period of suspension or expulsion
without the prior written approval of College President or a designated representative.

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Disciplinary Record

The College District shall maintain for every student alleged or determined to have committed
misconduct at the College District, a disciplinary record that shall reflect the charge, the
disposition of the charge, the sanction assessed, if any, and any other pertinent information. The
disciplinary record shall be separate from the student’s academic record and shall be treated as
confidential; the contents shall not be revealed except on request of the student or in accordance
with applicable state or federal laws.
The disciplinary record shall be maintained permanently in the event that a student is expelled or
subject to an extended suspension. In all other cases, the disciplinary record shall be maintained
in accordance with the College District’s record retention schedule

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 CONSEQUENCE OF ABUSE ASSOCIATED
WITH THE USE OF ILLICIT DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

Type Most Common General Consequences of Abuse

Drug of Abuse
STIMULANTS Caffeine, Cocaine, Moderate dosages caused increased alertness, excitation, euphoria,
Nicotine, Some increased pulse rate and blod pressure, insomnia, and loss of
Dietary Products, appetite. Overdoses can cause agitation, increase in body
Amphetamines, temperatures, hallucinations, convulsions and possibly death.
Methamphetamines
MARIJUANA Hashish Moderate dosages cause euphoria, relaxed inhibitions, increased
appetite and disoriented behavior. Overdoses can cause fatigue,
paranoia and possible psychosis. Sudden withdrawal can cause
insomnia, hyper-activity and decreased appetite.
SYNTHETIC Spice, Amazing J’s, Moderate dosages can cause negative effects that are not noted in
CANNABIS Herbal Incense marijuana users such as agitation and vomiting. Use can also cause
psychosis in a higher manner than with use of cannabis. Adverse
health effects associated with its use include seizures,
hallucinations, paranoid behavior, agitation, anxiety, nausea,
vomiting, racing heartbeat and elevated blood pressure. Users can
also suffer from effects of withdrawal sympoms similar to those
associated with withdrawing from the use of narcotics.
DEPRESSANTS Codeine, Heroin, Moderate dosages cause euphoria, drowsiness, respiratory
NARCOTICS Methadone, Opium, depression, constricted pupils and nausea. Overdose can cause slow
AND OPIATES Barbiturates, and shallow breathing, clammy skin, convulsions, coma and
Tranquilizers possible death. Sudden withdrawal results in water eyes, runny
nose, yawning, loss of appetite, irritability, tremors, panic, chills,
sweating, cramps and nausea. NOTE: Depressants combined with
alcohol can result in magnified negative effects.
INHALANTS Gasoline & Moderate dosages cause excitement, euphoria, giddiness, loss of
Kerosene, Glues & inhibitions, aggressiveness, delusions, depression, drowsiness,
Organic Cements, headache and nausea. Overdoes can cause loss of memory,
Lighter Fluid, confusion, unsteadiness. Sudden withdrawal results in insomnia,
Lacquer & Varnish, decreased appetite, depression, irritability and headache. Death can
Thinners, Aerosol, result from suffocation.
Propellants, Nitrous
Oxide
ALCOHOL Beer, Wine, Liquors Alcohol depresses the central nervous system. Initial effect may
relax and give mild feelings of euphoria. It also impairs judgment
and reduces reaction time and coordination. Prolonged abuse may
produce brain atrophy and dysfunction. Very large quantities and/or
prolonged abuse may result in death. Sudden withdrawal by an
alcoholic may produce serious problems such as delirium and
tremors. NOTE: Alcohol in combination with other depressants can
result in magnified negative effects.

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 LEGAL SANCTIONS: ALCOHOL, TEXAS STATUES

Underage Drinking Laws

Minors who purchase, attempt to purchase, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages, as well as
minors who are intoxicated in public or misrepresent their age to obtain alcoholic beverages, face
the following consequences:
• Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $500
• Alcohol awareness class
• 8 to 40 hours community service
• 30 to 180 days loss or denial of driver's license
If a minor is seventeen years of age or older and the violation is the third offense, the offense is
punishable by a fine of $250 to $2,000, confinement in jail for up to 180 days or both, as well as
automatic driver's license suspension.
A minor with previous alcohol-related convictions will have his or her driver's license suspended
for one year if the minor does not attend alcohol awareness training that has been required by the
judge.

Penalties for Providing Alcohol to a Minor

Adults and minors who give alcohol to a minor also face a stiff penalty. The punishment for
making alcoholic beverages available to a minor is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by a fine
up to $4,000, confinement in jail for up to a year, or both. Additionally, the violator will have his
or her driver´s license automatically suspended for 180 days upon conviction.
Persons 21 or older (other than the parent or guardian) can be held liable for damages caused by
intoxication of a minor under 18 if the adult knowingly provided alcoholic beverages to a minor
or knowingly allowed the minor to be served or provided alcoholic beverages on the premises
owned or leased by the adult.
Sale to a minor is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $4,000, confinement up to a
year in jail, or both.

Zero Tolerance Law

In Texas, it is illegal for a person under 21 to operate a motor vehicle in a public place while
having ANY detectable amount of alcohol in their system. On September 1, 2009, this law was
expanded to include watercraft in addition to motor vehicles.
1. The consequences for the minor on the first offense of driving under the influence of
alcohol:
• Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $500
• Attendance at an alcohol awareness class
• 20 to 40 hours of mandatory community service
• 60 days driver's license suspension. The minor would not be eligible for an
occupational license for the first 30 days.
2. A second offense increases the consequences too:
• Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $500

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 • Attendance at an alcohol awareness class at the judge's discretion
• 40 to 60 hours of mandatory community service
• 120 days driver's license suspension. The minor would not be eligible for an
occupational license for the first 90 days.
3. A third offense is not eligible for deferred adjudication. The minor's driver's license is
suspended for 180 days, and an occupational license may not be obtained for the entire
suspension period. If the minor is 17 years of age or older, the fine increases from $500
to $2,000, confinement in jail for up to 180 days, or both.

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LEGAL SANCTIONS: ILLICIT DRUGS, TEXAS STATUTES

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 SELF-ASSESSMENT
An Alcohol and Drug Abuse Questionnaire
YES NO
___ ___1. Have you ever cut classes in order to drink or use drugs because of the
after effects?
___ ___ 2. Do you drink or use drugs while studying?
___ ___ 3. Have you ever done poorly on an exam or assignment because of drinking
or using drugs?
___ ___ 4. Have friends or family ever told you that you drink too much or complained
about your drug use?
___ ___ 5. Have you ever lost a friend or has a relationship suffered from your drinking
or drug use?
___ ___ 6. Have you done or said anything while drinking or using drugs that you later
regretted?
___ ___ 7. Do you urge friends to drink or use drugs so that you won’t stand out?
___ ___ 8. Have you begun to associate with a heavier drinking group of friends or
a group that uses drugs?
___ ___ 9. Have you ever been hurt while drinking or using drugs?
___ ___ 10. Have you ever awakened after drinking or using drugs and wondered what
happened the night before?
___ ___ 11. Do you ever feel guilty about your use of alcohol or other drugs?
___ ___ 12. Do you drink or use drugs to forget your problems?
___ ___ 13. Do you drink or use drugs to feel more confident?
___ ___ 14. Have you ever been broke or gone into debt because you spent money on
alcohol or other drugs?
___ ___ 15. Have you ever destroyed or damaged property while drinking?
___ ___ 16. Do you ever drive while drinking or using drugs?
___ ___ 17. Have you ever been in trouble with College authorities because of alcohol
or drug use, or because of something you did while under the influence?
___ ___ 18. Do you use more than you planned?
___ ___19. Do you ever have difficulty stopping once you’ve started drinking or using
drugs?
___ ___ 20. Do you find yourself drinking or using drugs when you first wake up?
___ ___ 21. Do you drink or use drugs while alone?

Courtesy of Dartmouth College, reproduced with permission

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 RETHINKING DRINKING BOOKLET

Download the 16-page “Rethinking Drinking” Booklet

http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/RethinkingDrinking/OrderPage.htm,
or stop by the Counseling and Advising Office located in the Administrative Services Building
for a free copy.

TOPICS IN THE BOOKLET INCLUDE:

• Alcohol use by adults in the United States
• What counts as a drink?
• What’s your drinking pattern?
• What’s “low-risk” drinking?
• What’s “heavy” or “at-risk” drinking?
• How much do U.S. adults drink?
• What are symptoms of an alcohol use disorder?
• Thinking about change?
• To cut down or to quit drinking
• Planning for change
• Strategies for cutting down
• Support for quitting
• Professional support
• Change Plan

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 HEALTH RISKS

Health risks associated with drug and alcohol abuse encompass physical and psychological
effects, including but not limited to malnutrition, brain damage, paranoia, hepatitis, convulsions,
coma, depression, heart disease, death, pancreatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, damage to the central
nervous system, elevated blood pressure, respiratory failure, low birth weight babies, babies with
drug/alcohol addictions, and an increased probability of intravenous drug users contracting
AIDS. Additional health risks generally associated with alcohol and drug abuse can result in
lowered immune system, damage to critical nerve cells, physical dependency, lung damage,
physical and mental depression, increased infection, irreversible memory loss, personality
changes and thought disorders. The use of alcohol and other drugs represents a serious threat to
health and the quality of life. With most drugs, it is possible that users will develop
psychological and physical dependence. It is recommended that anyone having specific questions
relating to their health and drugs/alcohol should consult a physician.

Health Risks Associated with Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse

Alcohol abuse can lead to alcoholism, premature death, and complications of the brain, heart,
liver and other body organs. It is a prime contributor to suicide, homicide, motor vehicle deaths
and other so-called “accidental causes” of death. Alcohol interferes with psychological functions
and disrupts occupational and educational effectiveness

Associated Health Risks with Illicit Drug Use and Tobacco Products

Health risks associated with the misuse and abuse of mind-altering drugs, including controlled
substances and alcohol, include but are not limited to: physical and psychological dependence;
damage to the brain pancreas, kidneys, liver, and lungs; high blood pressure, heart attacks, and
strokes; ulcers; birth defects; diminished immune systems; and death. Illicit drug use can result
in a wide range of health problems including drug addiction, death by overdose or withdrawal
seizures, heart problems, infections, liver disease and chronic brain dysfunction (i.e. memory
loss, hallucinations, paranoia). The use of tobacco products has been linked to coronary heart
disease. Lung, oral, larynx, esophagus, bladder, pancreas and kidney cancers strike tobacco users
at increased rates. Further information may be found in the Advising & Counseling office located
in Administrative Services Building.

The general categories of drugs and their effects are as follows:

• Alcohol produces short-term effects that include behavioral changes, impairment of
judgment and coordination, greater likelihood of aggressive acts, respiratory depression,
irreversible physical and mental abnormalities in newborns (fetal alcohol syndrome) and
death. Long-term effects of alcohol abuse include damage to the liver, heart, and brain;
ulcers; gastritis; malnutrition; delirium tremens; and cancer. Alcohol combined with
other drugs can have serious side effects.
• Methamphetamines/Stimulants (speed, uppers, crank, Adderall, caffeine, etc.) speed up
the nervous system and can cause increased heart and breathing rates, higher blood
pressure, decreased appetite, headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, sleeplessness, anxiety,
hallucinations, paranoia, depression, convulsions and death due to stroke or heart failure.

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 • Anabolic Steroids seriously affect the liver, cardiovascular and reproductive systems.
They can cause sterility in males and females as well as impotency in males.
Benzodiazepines/Barbiturates/Depressants (Xanax, downers, Bars, Valium, etc.) slow
down the central nervous system and can cause decreased heart and breathing rates,
lowered blood pressure, slowed reactions, confusion, distortion of reality, convulsions,
respiratory depression, coma, and death. Depressants combined with alcohol can be
lethal.
• Cocaine/Crack stimulates the central nervous system and is extremely addictive, both
psychologically and physically. Effects include dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and
elevated blood pressure, and insomnia, loss of appetite, hallucinations, paranoia, seizures
and death due to cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.
• Hallucinogens and Synthetic Chemical Drugs (PCP, synthetic cannabis (Spice, etc.)
synthetic cathinone (Bath Salts, etc.), MDMA (ecstasy), LSD, etc.) interrupt the
functions of the part of the brain that controls the intellect and instincts. May result in
self-inflicted injuries, impaired coordination, dulled senses, incoherent speech,
depression, anxiety, violent behavior, paranoia, hallucinations, increased heart rate and
blood pressure, convulsions, coma, and heart and lung failure
• Cannabis (marijuana, hashish, hash, etc.) impairs short-term memory comprehension,
concentration, coordination, and motivation. It may also cause paranoia and psychosis.
Marijuana smoke contains more cancer-causing agents than tobacco smoke. The way in
which marijuana is smoked - deeply inhaled and held in the lungs for a long period -
enhances the risk of getting cancer.
• Opioids/Narcotics (heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, Demerol, Percodan,
etc.) initially produce feelings of euphoria often followed by drowsiness, nausea, and
vomiting. An overdose may result in convulsions, coma, and death. Tolerance develops
rapidly, and dependence is likely. Using contaminated syringes to inject such drugs may
result in AIDS.
• Tobacco/nicotine causes death among some 170,000 people in the United States each
year due to smoking-related coronary heart disease. Some 30 percent of the 130,000
cancer deaths each year are linked to smoking. Lung, larynx, esophagus, bladder,
pancreas and kidney cancers strike smokers at increased rates. Emphysema and chronic
bronchitis are 10 times more likely among smokers.

Further information on the health risk of abusing drugs and alcohol can be found on the
following websites:
• http://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse
• http://www.utexas.edu/ssw/cswr/institutes/ari/announcements/

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 COUNSELING, TREATMENT PROGRAMS AND RESOURCES
Employee/Student Prevention, Referrals and Resources
When personal or behavior problems begin to affect a student’s academic performance or an
employee’s work as a result of substance and alcohol abuse, the individual should be referred to
the Counseling and Academic Advising Office (students) or the Human Resources Office
(employees) for assistance and /or referral to an outside agency. The following guidelines apply
to all referrals:
1. The student or employee is responsible for any cost and/or fees incurred for professional
services outside the Counseling and Academic Advising Office, which is located in the
Administrative Services Building or you may call 903-463-8695.
2. Information concerning a student’s or an employee’s diagnosis, referral, treatment, and
medical records will be kept strictly confidential.
Referral Services
Students: See Advising and Counseling Services Office
Employees: See Human Resources Office
Resources
Professional Help
Your regular doctor, primary care and mental health practitioners can provide
effective alcoholism treatment by combining new medications with brief
counseling visits.
Information Resources
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
www.niaaa.nih.gov/guide or call 301–443–3860
Specialists in Alcoholism
For specialty addiction treatment options, contact your doctor, health insurance
plan, local health department, or employee assistance program. Other resources
include:
Medical and Non-Medical Addiction Specialists
American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry
www.aaap.org or 401–524–3076

American Psychological Association 1–800–964–2000 (ask for your

state’s referral number to find psychologists with addiction specialties)
American Society of Addiction Medicine 301–656–3920 (ask for the
phone number of your state’s chapter)

NAADAC Substance Abuse Professionals

www.naadac.org 1–800–548–0497

National Association of Social Workers

www.helpstartshere.org (search for social workers with addiction
specialties)

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 Treatment Facilities
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator
www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov or 1–800–662–HELP
Mutual-Help Groups
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
www.aa.org 212–870–3400 or check your local phone directory under
“Alcoholism”
Moderation Management
www.moderation.org 212–871–0974
Secular Organizations for Sobriety
www.secularsobriety.org 323–666–4295
SMART Recovery
www.smartrecovery.org or 440–951–5357
Women for Sobriety
www.womenforsobriety.org or 215–536–8026
Groups for Family and Friends
Al-Anon/Alateen www.al-anon.alateen.org or 1–888–425–2666 for
meetings
Adult Children of Alcoholics
www.adultchildren.org or 310–534–1815
National Institute on Drug Abuse
www.nida.nih.gov or 301–443–1124
National Institute of Mental Health
www.nimh.nih.gov 1–866–615–6464
National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information
www.ncadi.samhsa.gov 1–800–729–6686
Additional Resources
College Drinking
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism:
http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/CollegeFactSheet/CollegeFactSheet.pdf
A Sober College Experience?
http://teens.drugabuse.gov/blog/post/sober-college-experience
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
http://www.mentalhealth.gov/what-to-look-for/substance-abuse/
The Science Behind Drug Abuse
http://teens.drugabuse.gov/drug-facts
Adult Children of Alcoholics
www.adultchildren.org or 310-534-1815

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 POLICY DISSEMINATION

The College will provide employees information on where to find the Drug and Alcohol Policy
and the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program Statement, and they will also be required
to sign acknowledgment forms of these terms as part of the new employee on-boarding
materials. A copy of the Drug and Alcohol Policy and the Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention
Program Statement will also be posted on the Grayson College website.

The College will also make the Drug and Alcohol Policy and the Alcohol and Other Drug
Prevention Program available in student publications and online. The College will also annually
disseminate an email which includes the Drug and Alcohol Policy, and the Alcohol and Other
Drug Prevention Program to all employees and students. Students will receive information about
the Alcohol and Other Drug prevention program through College email and the Residence Hall
Mandatory Meeting.

The Grayson College Student Clubs and Organizations Risk Management Program is available
online under “The Scoop” in Canvas (//tinyurl.com/TheGCScoop).

The Biennial Review Report will be housed in the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs
and will be made available upon request. (Administrative Services Building, 903-463-8793).

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 DRUG AND ALCOHOL ADDICTION SOURCES
From the Grayson College Library

Addiction :Opposing viewpoints / Jennifer A. Hurley, book editor. 362.29 Add

Alcoholics Anonymous as a mutual-help movement :a study in

eight societies /cKlaus Makela ... [et al] 362.29 Alc

Chemical dependency :opposing viewpoints /cCharles P. Cozic

& Karin Swisher, book editors ; Stacey L. Tipp, assistant editor. 362.29 Che

Drug abuse :opposing viewpoints / Tamara L. Roleff, book editor. 362.29 Dru

Drug abuse :origins & interventions / edited by Meyer D. Glantz

and Christine R. Hartel. 362.29 Dru

Encyclopedia of drugs and alcohol / Jerome H. Jaffe, editor-in-chief. 362.29 Enc

Drugs in perspective :causes, assessment, family, prevention, intervention,

and treatment / Richard Fields. 362.29 Fie

Preventing alcohol abuse :alcohol, culture, and control / David J. Hanson. 362.29 Han

Alcohol :an opposing viewpoints guide / William Dudley, book editor. 362.292 Alc

Happy hours :alcohol in a woman's life / Devon Jersild. 362.292 Jer

Dying to drink :confronting binge drinking on college campuses /

Henry Wechsler and Bernice Wuethrich. 362.292 Wec

Prescription drug addiction :the hidden epidemic / Rod Colvin. 362.299 Col

Beautiful boy :a father's journey through his son's meth addiction /

David Sheff. 362.299 She

Tweak :(growing up on methamphetamines) / Nic Sheff. 362.299092 She

Addiction :why can't they just stop? : new knowledge, new treatments,
new hope /edited by John Hoffman and Susan Froemke ; foreword by Sheila
Nevins ; afterword by Susan Cheever ; [text by] David Sheff... [et al.] 616.86 Add

Concise guide to treatment of alcoholism and addictions / Avram H. Mack,

John E. Franklin, Jr., Richard J. Frances. 2 nd. Ed. 616.86 Con

The heart of addiction : Lance M. Dodes. 616.86 Dod

Handbook of clinical alcoholism treatment / [edited by] Bankole Johnson,

Pedro Ruiz, Marc Galanter. 616.86 Han

Treating alcohol dependence :coping skills training guide /

Peter M. Monti ... [et al.]. 616.86 Tre

The essential handbook of treatment and prevention of alcohol problems /

edited by Nick Heather and Tim Stockwell. 616.861Int

Treatment matching in alcoholism / edited by Thomas F. Babor

and Frances K. Del Boca. 616.861Tre

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we are grayson.
we are wellness.

grayson.edu