University can be overwhelming to new students as they navigate a new world of academic and social expectations while many are living away from their parents for the first time. One of the most important things you can do to help your student make healthy and informed decisions in university is to stay involved. Talk to your son or daughter frequently to keep the lines of communication open. The consequences of excessive drinking can have a devastating ripple effect on the student personally and the community.
Parents are encouraged to start the conversation early with their son or daughter about excessive drinking. Transitioning to university can offer many opportunities to raise the topic naturally. Academic course loads and schedules can lead into a conversation about how to set limits on socializing and drinking to ensure academics do not suffer. Housing and roommates that drink can lead into conversations about substance free residence options or how to manage roommates that drink too much. Post-secondary education is a significant investment of time and money. Have a conversation about how the potential consequences of excessive drinking related to housing evictions, loss of scholarships, and academic and student code of conduct sanctions may all impact the students' abiliity to remain in school.
If you are concerned about your son or daughter's alcohol or drug use, encourage them to access services. It is important that parents know that service providers cannot speak to them (parents) without written permission from their son or daughter, nor can we confirm that their son or daughter have accessed our services. Health Care Providers are bound by strict confidentiality laws under the Freedom of Information Act and the Health Prefession Act.