Health Promotion and Wellness's Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) sector utilizes evidence-based programs and best practices to address substance use at Mississippi State University.

AOD incorporates a harm reduction approach to help inform students how substance use may be affecting their student success and overall well-being. The main goal is to empower students to make informed decisions about their substance use by providing them with the proper knowledge, attitude and skills to do so. 

Prevention & Intervention

The GAIN program is a harm reduction approach to alcohol and marijuana use for college students. Participating in GAIN requires two appointments that last approximately 30 minutes. The sessions include completing an assessment, reviewing resources, and goal setting.  

Screen U is an anonymous web-based approach that includes screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) for college students. ScreenU provides feedback to students including strategies to reduce their risk. It takes approximately five minutes to complete.

Tailgate & Party Safety Tips

Remember 0-1-2-3. Zero drinks if you are under 21 or driving. One standard drink per hour maximum. Two drinking occasions per week maximum. Three drinks per occasion maximum.

Track the number of standard drinks you consume.

Alternate every alcohol drink with water or another non-alcohol beverage.

Preset your limit before you go out and stick to it.

Eat something high in protein prior to drinking and chose healthy snacks throughout your use.

Designate a non-drinking driver.

Presentations available by request:

Prescription Drugs: Pharm to Table 

Party Smart

Alcohol Jeopardy & Trivia Fun

We Got Your Bac: Let’s Talk About Your Blood Alcohol Concentration

Blunt Talk: Marijuana Use & Laws

Others available upon request

Connect with Student Counseling Services at https://www.counseling.msstate.edu/