Clues to high-risk use

Faculty have reported being worried about students who frequently display the following signs

• Poor class attendance
• Sudden change in attitude (e.g. neglecting academic studies)
• Inattentive in class (e.g. avoids class discussions and tardiness)
• Erratic behavior (e.g. mood swings)
• Missing deadlines for assignments
• Making excuses
• Poor grooming
• Writing assignments that focus on substance use and seem to be autobiographical

Dartmouth students have reported being worried about fellow students who frequently display the following signs

• Use to get intentionally drunk/high
• Use to avoid (or out of) boredom
• Use to gain social acceptance
• Miss class due to the effects of drugs/alcohol
• Sleep through class
• Experience a change in attitude either when using or sober (e.g. belligerent, argumentative)
• Change in mood either when using or sober (e.g. mood swings, irritability, etc.)
• Experience black outs (forget things that happen while using)
• Experience passing out (difficult to arouse)
• Use alcohol or drugs to decrease anxiety and be able to talk/dance more easily at parties
• Express suicidal ideation when using
• Preload before parties (consume alcohol and other drugs before "going out" to gain "optimal buzz")
• Engage in numerous sexual encounters while intoxicated
• Dump friends who express concern about usage
• Use to avoid thinking about problems
• Has high tolerance
• Drive while using and/or rides in a car with someone who is using

It is important to note that one sign doesn't mean that a problem exists. However, the accumulation of two or more signs increases the likelihood that a problem exists.