Hanging out with friends and late-night gatherings can give us a chance to unwind from academics and connect with others. Striking a balance between fun and safety, especially if you choose to drink or use other substances, can ensure you have a better night out.
Here are some strategies you can use to stay safe, look out for each other and enjoy going out with friends.
1. Choose for yourself
People commonly make some assumptions about partying in college. You may assume that everyone parties, that it’s normal to party every weekend or that it’s the best way to meet people. Partying is often represented this way on social media and other students may emphasize the party scene in Boulder, but those perceptions are often skewed. It’s important to remember that everyone has the opportunity to decide what they want for their own college experience.
If you choose to drink or use other substances, think about what you want your night out to look like. Knowing what you want and how to achieve that can help you think of ways to avoid experiences you don’t want, such as blacking out, accidentally overdosing, doing something you’ll regret or having a hangover.
2. Set limits
Setting limits around partying can help ensure that you have a positive experience. Here are a few examples:
3. Have an out
Whether you’re trying to avoid peer pressure or leave a party, it’s important to have an out. Consider your exit strategies before you go out with friends. This will help you be better prepared to address the situation in the moment.
Avoid peer pressure
Leave a party
4. Help prevent overdoses
Sometimes things can go badly or take an unexpected turn. This can include a person experiencing alcohol poisoning or an accidental overdose at a party. Knowing how to respond and get the person help can save their life.
If an emergency situation unfolds, here’s what you can do:
Watch for signs of an overdose:
- Passed out or unresponsive
- Slow or no breathing
- Vomiting while passed out
- Involuntary peeing or pooping
- Pale/bluish or cool/clammy skin
- Pinpoint (small) pupils
- Making gurgling, wheezing or snoring sounds
How to respond:
- Immediately call 911 and wait for help to arrive.
- Make sure the person is in a safe area to avoid injury.
- Turn the person on their side and put them in the recovery position.
- Administer naloxone (it’s safe to use even if someone is not overdosing or you’re unsure what substances they may have used).
- Never leave a severely intoxicated person alone or with someone who is not a trusted friend.
5. Look out for others
The reality is that most sexual assaults are carried out by friends, acquaintances, partners, exes or by a person someone has met online or at a party. Pushing substances onto someone or purusing someone who is intoxicated can be a common tactic for committing sexual assault.
If you’re at a party or out with friends, it’s important to keep an eye out for sketchy situations that may indicate that someone is trying to take advantage of another person through the use of alcohol or other drugs.
Watch out for someone who is:
If you notice these signs, be prepared to intervene or interrupt, even if you aren’t sure your reading the situation correctly. You may need to help reconnect them with trusted friends or enlist others to help ensure they can get home safely.
Learn more about drug-facilitated sexual assault
6. Have fun
College can be a stressful time, and it’s important to take time to have some fun. Practicing these strategies can help you stay safe and enjoy your night out.