Recognize and Refer
Faculty and staff members are in a unique position to identify and help students who are experiencing problems related to alcohol and other drug use. The Substance Use & Recovery Services office offers a variety of resources and services for TCU faculty and staff.
Concerned about a student? You can refer them to our office.
How to Support TCU Students
Pay attention to warning signs of alcohol and drug misuse:
- Inconsistent work
- Pattern of missing classes
- Sudden anxiety about grades and exams
- Poor time management
- Signs of intoxication (odor of alcohol or cannabis, blood shot eyes, tiredness in class)
If you notice these signs in a student, address your concerns with the student individually. Consider referring him/her to TCU Substance Use & Recovery Services
Know the facts about TCU alcohol and drug culture:
- Keep in mind not everyone drinks or uses illegal drugs
- Over 600 incoming students in the fall of 2017 said they would prefer to have a social life that doesn’t center around alcohol
- 1/3 of TCU students reported “zero” as their average number of drinks per week
- 20% of TCU students would prefer not to have alcohol available at parties they attend
- TCU students are under the national average for marijuana use. 83% of students are not current users
Give positive reinforcements and avoid generalized statements :
- Offer credit to students that attend community and university events that focus on wellness or alcohol and other drug education
- Utilize the Don’t Cancel that Class program and include wellness based programs into your classroom as a part of the curriculum dontcancelthatclass.tcu.edu
- Avoid comments like “I know everyone drinks” or “I’m canceling class Friday because no one will show up”
- Remember just because marijuana is legal in some states does not mean it is healthy
- Consider scheduling test and assignment due dates on Mondays and Fridays to encourage lower risk choices on weekends
- Remind students that good choices are celebrated and expected here at TCU
Reach out for help:
- If you notice that a student needs support but you are unsure how to assist them contact Substance Use & Recovery Services (817-257-7100) or Dean of Students (817-257-7926) for assistance.
- In case of an after-hours emergency, please contact University Police at 817-257-7777 or call the 24/7 counseling line 817-257-7233.