When Prevention Fails

An unfortunate truth is that some students are going to consume alcohol no matter how many times they are warned about the dangers of drinking. And of those students who do drink, some a going to end up binge drinking and putting their lives in danger.
Stony Brook University (N.Y) has developed the Red Watch Band Movement to train students on appropriate steps to take when another student passes out from consuming too much alcohol.
"What makes this program really innovative and important, is it focuses on the real non-negotiable aspects, mainly that you stay alive," says Jenny Hwang, associate dean and director for prevention and outreach. While acknowledging that some people might argue all efforts should focus on preventing binge drinking, Hwang points out, "Unfortunately, this is the reality we're up against."
The four-hour training program, which can be found at www.redwatchband.org, focuses on debunking myths associate with binge drinking, such as it's ok if someone passes out from drinking too much alcohol (it's a medical emergency) and clarifying that students won't get suspended if they call for aid.
"Our hope is other schools will be able to take this information and run with it, but we’ll be available for consultation," Hwang says, pointing out leaders on each campus will have a better understanding of which groups to target on their own campus.
Stony Brook, also provides prevention education aimed at freshmen, the Greek system, and athletes.
Learn more at www.RedWatchBand.org.

Comments

[Twin xl]

What a fantastic program. I hope many other schools take such great steps. It is a blessing to have this program even if it helps one person!