Pack Recovery Folder
About Substance Use and Recovery
Around 14 percent of full-time college students ages 18 to 22 meet the criteria for past-year Substance Use Disorder, according to a 2019 national survey. A Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is a clinical term used to define the spectrum of problematic substance use. This is a catch-all term for significant problems with any drug: alcohol, cannabis, opioids, tobacco, etc. A SUD occurs when the recurrent use of alcohol and/or drugs causes clinically, functionally significant impairment; such as health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home.
Signs and Symptoms
- Declining academic performance
- Drastic changes in weight (+/-)
- Money problems
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Trouble with the law
- Changes in mood
- Changes in appearance
**These signs alone do not necessarily indicate substance use problems, but should be considered, especially when seen together**
Decreasing Stigma Surrounding Substance Use/Misuse
- Talk openly about mental health and alcohol/other drug use
- Facilitate exposure to Prevention Services
- Model and teach active bystander interventions
- Multicultural considerations
- Language (helpful graphic)
- Person-first, strengths-based language. Using person-first language centers the humanity of the individual or community by putting the person before their diagnosis or experience with substance use. That is what a person “has” or “is experiencing” versus what a person “is.”
About Pack Recovery
Around 14 percent of full-time college students ages 18 to 22 meet the criteria for past-year Substance Use Disorder, NC State is proud to offer a Collegiate Recovery Community (CRC) serving students in recovery from substance use disorders. The CRC, also known as Pack Recovery, provides an environment where students recovering from substance use disorders can find peer support in addition to other support services while sustaining recovery. Pack Recovery is a program housed in Prevention Services that is available free of charge. Pack Recovery believes that there are multiple pathways to recovery and encourages students to develop and maintain an active recovery through a wellness plan. Pack Recovery’s goal is for students to have an authentic college experience while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
How to make a referral to Pack Recovery
Option 1: Email packrecovery@ncsu.edu
Option 2: Call 919.515.2423
Option 3: Complete an inquiry form
Option 4: Complete an application