Welcome back to campus! We hope you had a delightful summer that was safe and fun. Hoosiers are getting back into a routine, settling in, meeting new friends, reuniting with old ones, and starting new classes. All this change can be stressful and overwhelming! Amid all of the chaos that a new semester brings, it is important to focus on your recovery.
Below are some tips for maintaining recovery at the beginning of this semester so you can continue to bloom:
Creating a support system:
Find people who will support you during your recovery, whether it be through Collegiate Recovery Community meetings or other clubs on campus, in the community, or online.
Attend a CRC meeting. They are every Tuesday from 6-7 at 506 N Fess Ave. Or, get in touch with the community to arrange a one-on-one meeting at crcs@iu.edu or 812-856-3898.
Stress management:
Keeping a consistent schedule and creating space for free time is crucial for stress management. Stress is one of the biggest triggers for relapse.
Manage time either through a planner or another method.
Make time to de-stress and relax.
Stay on top of your classes and responsibilities.
Be kind to yourself and allow room for error.
Alcohol consumption during Fall festivities:
Tailgating season is right around the corner, which can be fun, but can also create a culture of binge drinking.
Remember, you can choose not to drink even if the event is centered around it. You can always go to support the team, eat good food, and see friends.
If you choose to drink, try to sip on a low percentage alcoholic beverage such as beer over liquor or mixed drinks.
Alternate water and alcohol to stay hydrated. This is important so you do not over drink. According to the NIAA, “Alcohol suppresses the release of vasopressin, a hormone produced by the brain that sends signals to the kidneys causing them to retain fluid. As a result, alcohol increases urination and excess loss of fluids.”
Pour your own drinks to control the amount of alcohol content.
Sex differences in BAC matter!
How much water volume you hold
Body fat percentage
Enzymes: Gastric alcohol dehydrogenase is higher in males and supports the breakdown of alcohol
Hormones
The only way to reduce BAC is time.
If you take any medication, make sure it does not interact negatively with alcohol.
Leave a Reply