How to Stop Binge Drinking on College Campuses

Binge drinking on college campuses affects more than just those that are doing it—teachers, parents and the quality of campus life all suffer when the problem gets out of hand. Putting an end to binge drinking is not easy but it is possible with the right initiatives.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Provide alcohol free activities on campus that discourage students from drinking. Hosting regular movie nights, dances and volunteer opportunities is a great way to help students find alternative outlets for entertainment when they are bored.
2. Spread awareness of the problem by educating students as early as possible. Provide informational seminars for both prospective and incoming freshman. Once admitted into the college, dorm residents should be required to attend quarterly sessions that reinforce the dangers of binge drinking on campuses.
3. Draft stricter policies regarding acceptable noise levels and locations of parties and educate campus security guards on the importance of enforcing them. By creating more “safe zones” where alcohol is forbidden, students have less chances of falling prey to binge drinking.
4. Create a mentorship program that matches a dedicated mentor with students of all ages and backgrounds. The mentors can be either a faculty or staff member and should encourage students to pursue non-alcoholic activities. They should also be accessible by phone or email during off hours, just in case a student is faced with difficult decisions in a situation involving alcohol and needs an unbiased person to talk to.