Five Alcohol Safety Tips

For many college students heading back to school means new roommates, classes, fall sports, all-nighters, hanging out with friends, and parties. While most of these activities might seem harmless, fun, and even expected of a college student, excessive alcohol use can pose many safety risks, especially for women.

We know you're excited to see your friends, blow off some steam and have a good time. But we also know that going out without a plan can turn what was meant to be a fun evening into a nightmare.

Did you know that…

At least 50% of student sexual assaults involve alcohol.
Approximately 90% of rapes perpetrated by an acquaintance involve alcohol.
About 43% of sexual assault events involve alcohol use by the victim; 69% involve alcohol use by the perpetrator. 1

At Collage, we care about you and want to provide you with helpful information about alcohol consumption and its risks to your sexual and emotional health. So, here are five safety tips that can help keep you and your friends out of risky situations that involve alcohol and sex.

1. Avoid Excessive Alcohol.

Low-risk drinking is thinking about your limit before getting to the party. Limiting alcoholic beverages to one drink per hour is recommended, a maximum of three for gals and four for guys for the entire evening. Alternating drinking with food and water is also a good option.

High-risk drinking can lead to excessive alcohol consumption. Common high-risk drinking activities are drinking games, chugging, doing shots, and mixing drinks with drugs or energy drinks. 2

2. Have a Group.

Ever heard of the old saying, 'there's safety in numbers?' Going to a party with a group of friends to act as lookouts for each other is a great idea! A way to keep safe within your group is to have a code word that will help tip off your friends if you feel like you are in an unsafe situation. Then, if anyone says or texts the code word, try to help get that friend out of the problem.

3. Choose Safe Areas.

The safest option at a party is to stay with your group at all times. Avoid isolation or putting yourself in situations where you can't be heard or seen. If you do need to leave your group, take a friend with you and make sure that you communicate with your group about where you're going and when you think you'll be back.

4. Be Protective of your Drink.

If you choose to drink at a party, keep it with you at all times. Never allow someone to refill your glass or get you a new drink. It's too easy to have something slipped into your drink when you're not looking. 56% of women and 44% of men said they've unknowingly had their drinks spiked. Out of this surveyed group, 52% said they had their first drink spiked during college. 3

If you did leave your drink unattended or accepted a drink from somebody else, pay attention to your body for the effects of a possible spike. Some signs of having your drink mixed with a drug can include extreme drowsiness, compromised cognitive/physical abilities, nausea, difficulty concentrating, and blurred vision.

5. Trust Your Instincts.

If you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or worried for any reason while on a date or at a party, don't ignore those feelings. Get somewhere safe and find someone you trust. Sometimes acting on intuition can feel awkward, embarrassing, and even stupid. Never let those feelings stop you from seeking safety. You and your safety are more important than anyone's embarrassment or inconvenience.

If you need help…

If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve been sexually assaulted, contact Campus Police or the Local Police immediately.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, Family Advocacy Network is a great resource in Kearney as is Willow Rising in Grand Island. If you think you may be pregnant and you want someone to talk to, please contact us. We want to be there for you.

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My Friends Are Telling Me to Abort, But I'm Not Ready

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An unexpected pregnancy can leave you with more questions than answers. Especially when friends are urging you to choose abortion, you may be more confused than ever. While their advice might come from care or fear, it’s essential to remember this is your pregnancy, future, and choice. At Collage, we’re here to help you navigate this pressure and find a path that feels right for you so that you can feel informed and confident about your decision. Reach out to us today for no-cost support. Listen to Your Instincts Your friends might be an important part of your life, but your instincts matter most. If abortion doesn’t feel right, take a moment to ask: What’s holding me back? Maybe you’re picturing parenting your child or are curious about adoption. It’s also important to keep in mind that abortion is a serious procedure that your friends may not fully grasp the details of. Physical and emotional risks are involved, making it a more complex decision. Your hesitation is a sign to slow down and explore, not to rush into a choice you’re not ready for. Talk It Out If your friends keep pressing, try a gentle conversation. Let them know you understand they’re worried, you’re not sure about abortion yet. Ask what’s driving their advice. Maybe they’re scared about your finances or future. Maybe they’re simply telling you what they’d do in your situation, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Understanding their side can ease tension without giving in. If they won’t respect your space, set boundaries and let them know you need time to think. You don’t owe them an immediate answer. Find Your Support Surround yourself with people who’ll lift you up, not pull you down. Write down your thoughts or talk to someone neutral. You can find a counselor or even online spaces where you can share your heart with those who won’t push one option over another. Even a trusted family member, a mentor, or a place like Collage can offer perspective without strings. You deserve to make this decision with clear facts and a steady heart, not under pressure. Help is Available If your friends are pushing abortion but you’re not ready, Collage is here with no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing, limited obstetric ultrasounds, and pregnancy options education to help you decide what’s next. Our trained team offers confidential support to explore parenting, adoption, or abortion without pressure. Contact us for a no-cost appointment today. You deserve to choose your own path.

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