Substance Use

Our Approach to Substance Misuse Prevention

The Center for Student Wellbeing’s approach to substance use and misuse, as with all of our health promotion work, is multi-pronged and comprehensive. Informed by best practices and evidence-based initiatives, we aim to empower and educate our students to make responsible decisions around substance use. 

This work is grounded in the Socio-Ecological Model (SEM), which recognizes that individual behavior is influenced by multiple levels of interaction—from personal knowledge and skills to broader societal and policy factors. Using the SEM framework, Emory implements strategies at every level: 

  • Individual: We provide students with accurate, research-based information and personalized support to help them understand the effects of substances and develop harm reduction strategies.  
  • Interpersonal: We engage and educate peer educators, student organizations, and mentorship programs to foster supportive relationships that encourage safer choices, accountability, and a robust community of helping one another. 
  • Institutional: Emory ensures that campus policies, procedures, and resources align to create an environment that discourages substance misuse and supports student well-being. 
  • Community: We collaborate with local partners and law enforcement to promote safe community norms and reduce high-risk behaviors off-campus. 
  • Public Policy: Emory supports compliance with state and federal regulations and advocates for broader policy changes that enhance public health and safety. 

By addressing the factors that contribute to substance use at multiple levels, Emory creates a campus culture that prioritizes student health, safety, and success. 

 

What is Harm Reduction? 

Harm reduction, in regard to substance use, refers to  

  • Providing education, resources, and tools to lower risk should an individual choose to use substances.  
  • Acknowledging there is no “safe” way to use substances, but there are strategies to reduce the chances of substance-related consequences.  

Whether you use substances or not, these strategies can aid in a safer social environment for yourself and your peers.