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Students

No student under the age of 21 may use or possess alcohol. •

• Students of legal drinking age may possess and participate in responsible consumption of alcohol in university residence halls, in accordance with Residence Life policies.
• Students of legal drinking age living off-campus may participate in responsible consumption in accordance with city and state laws and ordinances. Abuse of these privileges may result in student conduct proceedings by the University.
• Students must comply with the University’s Alcoholic Beverages Policy.

The use, possession, manufacturing, and/or trafficking of illegal drugs is prohibited. The University reserves the right to report illegal drug use and may refer a student to criminal or civil authorities in cases regarding trafficking or intent to distribute illegal drugs.

The abuse, misuse, sale, or distribution of prescription or over-the-counter medications is also prohibited. This includes the use of prescription medications not prescribed to the individual by a licensed healthcare provider.

Failure to abide by the above expectations will be addressed through the student conduct process and will result in consequences under the Student Conduct Code, which identifies other alcohol- and drug-related expectations and the potential consequences for violations.

Employees

The University’s Workplace Conduct Policy prohibits the following while on University property or as a part of any University-sponsored event or University-funded activity:

• The unlawful possession, use or distribution of alcohol, drugs, or drug paraphernalia and the possession, use or distribution of cannabis;
• Being under the influence of illicit drugs or impaired by alcohol or cannabis; and
• The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of controlled substances in the workplace.

Cannabis – Students and Employees

Although Minnesota state law permits adults aged 21 years or older to possess and consume cannabis under certain circumstances, federal law still generally prohibits the possession, use, or distribution of cannabis on St. Thomas’s campus. Therefore, the use, distribution, or possession of cannabis, including products containing THC (such as certain CBD products), is not permitted on St. Thomas property.

In Minnesota, it is illegal for individuals under 21 to possess or consume alcohol, as well as for anyone to possess illegal substances. The »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ is deeply committed to upholding its legal and moral responsibilities to its »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ members.

Educational Sanctions

Students who violate the »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy may be required to complete one or more educational sanctions courses as a condition of continuing enrollment.

These interactive online courses are designed for students cited for underage drinking or any marijuana use - whether the incident occurs on campus, in residence halls, or in the broader »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ. The courses aim to support student learning and accountability in alignment with university policies.

Cost:

• Alcohol Sanctions Course: $40
• Marijuana Sanctions Course: $40

Conduct Sanctions

Depending on the outcome of the conduct process, students may also be required to complete additional educational or behavioral sanctions designed to promote learning, accountability, and healthier decision-making.

Students who are required to complete a substance-related conduct appointment as part of the student conduct process should contact the Center for Well-Being at 651-962-6750 and request an appointment with the Substance Use Prevention Counselor.

Employee

Violations of these expectations will result in disciplinary sanctions under the Workplace Conduct Policy, which identifies other alcohol- and drug-related expectations and the potential consequences for violations. Additionally, employees must comply with the University’s Alcoholic Beverages Policy.

St. Thomas students are expected to care for themselves and others in the St. Thomas »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ. See the University’s Good Samaritan Policy regarding helping an individual impaired by alcohol or drug consumption.

Center for Well-Being

Counseling and Psychological Services

If you are concerned about your drinking behavior, Counseling and Psychological Services staff can help you assess whether it is a problem and what steps you can take to change it.

We do not encourage underage drinking, but acknowledge that it does happen on »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ campuses. Our goal is to help students make well-informed decisions that keep the St. Thomas »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ safe and healthy.

To make an appointment, call the Center for Well-Being at (651) 962-6750 or myHealthPortal.

Health Services

Health Services provides confidential, nonjudgmental care for students with questions or concerns about alcohol and other drug use. Health Services offers screening, brief intervention, education, and referrals to campus or »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ resources, helping students make informed decisions and access the support they need to improve their health and well-being.

Wellness Coaching

Wellness Coaching provides a confidential, nonjudgmental space for students to explore their alcohol and other drug use, set personal goals, and develop strategies that support their overall well-being. Whether students are looking to reduce use, make healthier choices, or improve balance in their lives, wellness coaches partner with them to create individualized plans and connect them with additional campus resources when appropriate.

Go to our page to take substance use or behavioral concerns screeners.

The »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ supports employee well-being through Human Resources by providing access to confidential resources for alcohol and other drug concerns.

• Employees may seek assistance through the University’s Employee Assistance Program. For information about the University’s Employee Assistance Program, please refer to St. Thomas’s EAP Information, available on OneStThomas.
• Any member of the University »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ who is concerned about use, abuse, and rehabilitation is strongly encouraged to contact their family physician or health plan.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988 any time, day or night. Trained crisis counselors provide free, confidential support and can connect individuals with local resources.

Local Treatment Resources

Community providers offer a range of services for alcohol and other drug concerns, including assessment, outpatient counseling, intensive outpatient treatment, residential treatment, and recovery support. Students and employees who need assistance finding appropriate care can contact the Center for Well-Being or the Employee Assistance Program for referrals.

Crisis Services

If someone is experiencing a medical emergency, overdose, or is in immediate danger, call 911 right away. For urgent mental health or substance use concerns that are not life-threatening, county mobile crisis teams and local crisis services can provide assessment, intervention, and connections to ongoing care.

SAMHSA National Helpline

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental health or substance use disorders. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to receive information about treatment options and »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ resources in your area.

Understanding how alcohol affects the body, decision-making, and overall well-being can help students make informed choices and support themselves and others.

Standard Drink Sizes

Knowing what counts as a standard drink can help students make informed decisions.

• 12 ounces of regular beer (about 5% alcohol)
• 5 ounces of wine (about 12% alcohol)
• 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits (about 40% alcohol)
• Alcohol content can vary widely among beverages, so checking labels is important

Low-Risk Drinking Guidelines

Lower-risk drinking strategies can help reduce the likelihood of negative health and safety outcomes.

• Consider setting personal limits before drinking
• Avoid drinking quickly or consuming multiple drinks in a short period of time
• Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages
• Eat before and while drinking
• Recognize that the safest choice for some individuals is not to drink
• Only drink

Binge Drinking

Binge drinking is a pattern of alcohol use that can increase the risk of harm and negative consequences.

• For most adults, binge drinking is typically defined as consuming 5 or more drinks for men or 4 or more drinks for women in about 2 hours
• Binge drinking can increase the risk of alcohol poisoning, injury, risky decisions, and academic challenges
• Individual factors such as body size, medications, and drinking history can affect alcohol’s impact

Effects on the Brain and Body

Alcohol affects many areas of the body, including the brain, emotions, coordination, and decision-making abilities.

• Can impair judgment, reaction time, memory, and coordination
• May affect mood, sleep, and stress levels
• Heavy or frequent alcohol use can increase risks for long-term health concerns
• Mixing alcohol with medications or other drugs can create serious health risks

Academic Performance

Alcohol use can affect students’ ability to succeed academically and maintain overall well-being.

• May interfere with concentration, motivation, and time management
• Can contribute to missed classes, lower grades, and difficulty completing assignments
• Poor sleep related to alcohol use may affect learning and academic performance

Safer Celebrations

Planning ahead and looking out for others can help create safer and more enjoyable social experiences.

• Have a plan for transportation before drinking
• Stay with trusted friends and look out for one another
• Only drink beverages that you make yourself or that you see someone else make or open
• Do not accept drinks from people you do not know or leave your drink unattended
• Avoid pressure to drink or drink more than intended
• Know the signs of alcohol poisoning and when to seek emergency help
• Include alcohol-free options at social events

Alcohol poisoning is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when someone consumes more alcohol than their body can safely process. Knowing the warning signs and acting quickly can save a life.

Signs of Alcohol Poisoning May Include

• Confusion, inability to stay awake, or loss of consciousness
• Vomiting, especially while unconscious or unable to sit up
• Slow, irregular, or difficult breathing
• Seizures
• Pale, bluish, or clammy skin
• Low body temperature, cold skin, or feeling unusually cold
• Unresponsiveness or inability to wake up

What To Do

• Call immediately if you suspect alcohol poisoning
  • On campus: Public Safety (651) 962-555
  • Off Campus: 911
• Stay with the person until help arrives
• Place the person on their side if they are unconscious or vomiting to reduce the risk of choking
• Do not leave the person alone to “sleep it off”
• Do not try to make the person vomit or give them coffee, food, or a cold shower as a way to reverse the effects of alcohol

Remember: When in doubt, call for help. The »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ encourages students to seek emergency assistance when someone’s health or safety may be at risk. The Good Samaritan protections may apply when students seek help during an alcohol or drug-related emergency.

Even though Minnesota law allows cannabis products for adults 21+, cannabis remains illegal under federal law and is therefore not allowed on the »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ campus.

Cannabis is a psychoactive substance that contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the chemical responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. Cannabis can affect thinking, mood, memory, coordination, and decision-making. Understanding the different ways cannabis is consumed, how it affects the body, and university policies can help students make informed choices.

Common Ways Cannabis Is Used

Cannabis can be consumed in several ways, including:

Smoking Cannabis

Smoking cannabis involves inhaling THC through burned cannabis flower.

• Effects are typically felt more quickly than with edibles.
• The intensity and duration of effects can vary based on THC potency, amount used, and individual factors.
• Smoking can irritate the lungs and may expose users to harmful substances produced during combustion.
• Impairment can affect reaction time, coordination, attention, and judgment.

Cannabis Edibles

Cannabis edibles are food and beverage products that contain THC. Because edibles are processed through the digestive system, their effects can feel different from smoked cannabis and may take longer to appear.

Common types of cannabis edibles include:

• Gummy candies
• Chocolates
• Baked goods
• Beverages such as infused sodas or juices

Onset and Duration: Why Edibles Can Be Different

The effects of cannabis edibles are often delayed, which can lead people to consume more than intended.

• Effects may take longer to begin compared with smoking cannabis.
• The delayed onset can increase the risk of consuming more THC than intended.
• Effects may last longer and may be more difficult to predict.
• Avoid consuming additional amounts before knowing how the first dose affects you.

Effects of Cannabis on the Brain and Body

Cannabis can affect individuals differently depending on the amount used, THC concentration, frequency of use, and personal factors.

Possible effects include:

• Changes in memory, concentration, and learning
• Slower reaction time and impaired coordination
• Altered perception and judgment
• Increased anxiety, paranoia, or changes in mood for some individuals
• Difficulty completing academic or daily responsibilities

Cannabis and Academic Success

Cannabis use can impact academic performance and student success by affecting:

• Concentration and ability to retain information
• Motivation and engagement
• Attendance and completion of academic responsibilities
• Sleep quality and overall well-being

Safer Cannabis Choices

• Understand the effects and risks before using cannabis.
• Avoid combining cannabis with alcohol or other drugs, which can increase impairment and unpredictable effects.
• Do not drive or operate vehicles while impaired.
• Be aware that cannabis products can vary widely in THC concentration.
• Consider how cannabis use may affect your health, goals, relationships, and responsibilities.

Good Samaritan Policy

The »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ encourages students to look out for one another and seek help during an emergency. Students who seek medical assistance for an intoxicated or impaired friend may not face formal disciplinary action for their own alcohol or drug use when they call for help in accordance with the university’s Good Samaritan Policy.

Alcohol and Drug-Free University Policy

The »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy campus environment. Students are expected to follow the university’s Alcohol and Drug-Free University Policy, which outlines expectations related to alcohol and other drug use on campus.

Substances such as cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and prescription medications can affect the brain and body in powerful ways. Understanding the risks associated with these substances, recognizing signs of harm, and knowing where to find support can help students make informed decisions and protect their health and well-being.

Cocaine

Cocaine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system by increasing activity in the brain. It can create feelings of increased energy, alertness, and confidence, but it can also lead to serious health risks and unpredictable effects.

Possible Effects

• Increased energy, alertness, and talkativeness
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Decreased appetite
• Restlessness, anxiety, or agitation
• Difficulty sleeping
• Runny nose and nasal irritation when snorted
• Damage to the nasal septum with repeated use

Health Risks

• High blood pressure and increased heart rate
• Irregular heartbeat
• Hallucinations, paranoia, or severe anxiety
• Seizures or convulsions
• Kidney damage
• Increased risk of stroke, heart attack, cardiac arrest, or respiratory failure
• Overdose can be life-threatening

Amphetamines

Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that increase activity in the brain and body. Some amphetamines are prescribed medications used to treat conditions such as ADHD, but misuse can create serious health risks.

Possible Effects

• Increased energy and alertness
• Decreased appetite
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Tremors or shaking
• Loss of coordination
• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety, dizziness, headaches, or irritability

Health Risks

• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe anxiety, agitation, or paranoia
• Heart problems, including heart failure
• Increased risk of stroke or ruptured blood vessels in the brain
• Seizures
• Dependence and addiction with repeated misuse

Narcotics / Opioids

Opioids are a class of drugs that reduce pain by acting on areas of the brain that control pain and emotions. Prescription opioids can be helpful when used as directed, but misuse can lead to dependence, addiction, and overdose.

Common Effects

• Pain relief
• Relaxation or feelings of euphoria
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Reduced pain sensitivity
• Slowed thinking and reaction time

Health Risks

• Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
• Slowed heart rate
• Confusion or extreme drowsiness
• Constipation and digestive problems
• Changes in hormones and overall health
• Physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms
• Increased risk of overdose, coma, or death

Opioid Overdose Warning Signs

• Cannot be awakened
• Slow, irregular, or stopped breathing
• Blue or gray lips or fingernails
• Pinpoint pupils
• Limp body or loss of consciousness

If an opioid overdose is suspected, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if available.

Prescription Drugs

Prescription medications are designed to treat specific health conditions when used as directed by a healthcare provider. Even medications that are legally prescribed can be harmful when taken incorrectly, combined with other substances, or used without medical supervision.

Safe Use Includes:

• Taking medication exactly as prescribed
• Following instructions from a healthcare provider
• Storing medications securely
• Never sharing prescription medications with others

Risks of Misuse Include:

• Taking medication without a prescription
• Taking more than prescribed or using it in a different way than directed
• Sharing or using someone else’s medication (which is illegal)
• Increased risk of addiction, dependence, and overdose
• Dangerous interactions with alcohol or other drugs
• Serious side effects affecting the brain, heart, and body

Make Informed Choices & Get Support

Any substance, including medications prescribed by a healthcare provider, can have risks when not used as directed. If you have concerns about your own alcohol or drug use, are worried about a friend, or need support, contact the Center for Well-Being for confidential resources, education, and referrals.