Academic Engagement

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Student Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program

The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) is committed to fostering a safe learning environment that is free of impairment related to substance abuse through its Student Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program in accordance with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act, the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and the Higher Education Act. This initiative is designed to recognize the standards of conduct, communicate the potential sanctions, educate on the health risks associated with alcohol and drug abuse, promote responsible decision-making and identify resources for support.  

Policy
Standards of Conduct
Sanctions
Health Risks
Support
Additional Resources
Program

For questions, contact the Office of Academic Engagement. 

Policy 

All students are to review and abide by the Student Drug and Alcohol policy. 

Standards of Conduct 

When on property owned, operated or under the control of UMMC or otherwise engaged for educational purposes, including but not limited to instructional sites, external training sites and institutional activities: 

  • Students are prohibited from being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. 
  • The possession, use, manufacture, distribution or sale of illegal drugs or controlled substances is strictly prohibited. 
  • The possession, use, manufacture, distribution or sale of illegal drugs or controlled substances may result in disciplinary action, such as education, remediation, probation and sanctions up to and including dismissal. 
  • The possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages may result in disciplinary action, such as education, remediation, probation and sanctions up to and including dismissal. 
  • Prescription drugs may be brought to UMMC property. Such drugs may be used only in the manner, combination and quantity prescribed, as long as they do not impair the student’s ability to safely and appropriately perform duties. 

Sanctions 

Violations of the Student Drug and Alcohol Policy may result in disciplinary action, such as education, remediation, probation and sanctions up to and including dismissal. Any student who is convicted of violating federal or state law related to drug and alcohol offenses may be subject to both criminal prosecution and punishment by judicial or local authorities and to UMMC disciplinary actions, such as education, remediation, probation and sanctions up to and including dismissal. UMMC may also refer matters to law enforcement for prosecution and to licensing or certification boards or agencies when appropriate.  

Health Risks 

Drug and alcohol abuse pose serious health risks, both physically and mentally. Long-term use can damage vital organs and lead to conditions such as liver disease, heart problems and cognitive impairment. Abuse also weakens the immune system and increases vulnerability to infections and other diseases. Mental health issues like depression, anxiety and psychosis are common. The risk of addiction and a cycle of dependency is greater, with negative effects both socially and occupationally. Drug and alcohol abuse also increases the likelihood of accidents, injuries, risky behaviors and overdose, potentially resulting in harm or death. See the resources below for more information about the health risks. 

Mayo Clinic: Drug Addiction 

National Institute on Alcohol and Abuse and Alcoholism: Effects on the Body 

National Institute on Drug Abuse: Addiction and Health 

Support 

The following UMMC resources are available for assistance with drug or alcohol related issues. 

Student Counseling Services 

TELUS Health Assistance Program 

Office of Well-Being 

Additional Resources 

The following are external resources for drug and alcohol related issues. 

Mississippi Department of Health: Alcohol and Drug Services 

Mississippi Nurse Voluntary Program 

Mississippi Physician Health Program 

Professionals Health Network 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Substance Use Disorder Treatment 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): National Helpline 

FindTreatment.gov 

Program 

UMMC provides information regarding the standards of conduct, potential sanctions, education and prevention, the health risks of drug and alcohol abuse, and resources for support. The institution performs a biennial review of the effectiveness and consistency of the program and implements recommended changes for program improvement.