- Being Alcohol-Free
Non Use?... At UNH?
Did you know... According the 2007 UNH student survey
- 14% of UNH students do not use alcohol at all.
- 28% of UNH students do not use alcohol on a weekly basis.
For a campus of 12,000 students, that is over 3,000 students who don't drink.
Which is like filling Stoke Hall 4½ times!
Whether you choose to not drink at all, or are selective about where and when you drink…YOU CAN BE SUBSTANCE FREE AT UNH!
Common Myths About NOT Drinking
- I won't have anything to do.
- I won't make/keep any friends.
- People will pressure me to drink.
None of these are true, thousands of UNH students don't drink, or "party" and still have a fun and active social life.
Why Not Drink?
- To stay out of trouble
- To stay safe
- To stay in control
- For religious/moral reasons
- Previous bad experiences
- Health reasons
- Medication Interactions
- Family history of Alcoholism
How to Deal with Others
- Be consistent. It is easier for people to support you if you are consistent with your message and your approach.
- Be willing and prepared to turn down drinks.
- If comfortable, share your plan and feelings. People are less likely to offer you a drink if they know that you don't plan on drinking.
- If comfortable, share your thoughts with others. You might find that a friend has similar feelings and you speaking up may give them the courage to not drink too.
Plan Ahead
- What else is happening on campus?
- If you are going to a party, bring your own drinks.
- Speak up. If there is something you would like to see or do (on your floor, in your hall, or on campus) let people know.
- Get involved in groups that share your interests.
- Find friends who are supportive.
Remember... Whatever Your Reason, It's the Right Reason For You!
Don't worry about others. Most won’t notice or care if you don't drink.
You Don't Need Alcohol to Have Fun
You could be a catalyst for change as others notice that you are having a good time without the negative consequences often associated with drinking.
How To Have Fun Without Drinking!
- Join a student organization
- Take a class at Campus Recreation
- Join SPIN! Students Promoting Information on Nutrition
- Check out great events at the MUB
- Ask your RA to organize a theme party, provided by Health Services
- Check out the events at Campus Ministry
- Go to a UNH Athletics game. Go Wildcats!
- Cook or have dinner with your friends.
- Go shopping.
- Go dancing.
- Watch your favorite TV show.
- Take some time for you.
- Go for a walk.
- Go to a movie with a friend.
- Play a game.
- Need ideas? Check out MUB After Hours.
