Alcohol & Other Drugs

Info Panel: If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911. MSU’s Medical Amnesty Policy can protect you from facing disciplinary action by the university for alcohol and other drug use. 

About Us 

We seek to reduce the negative impact of substance use, while creating an environment in which Spartans can flourish in all aspects of their lives. Our services are guided by a belief that Spartans can make well-informed decisions about alcohol and other drugs when given the resources to do so. 

You are not alone. Help is available. 

If your use of alcohol or other drugs gives you significant distress and problems functioning in your daily life, you may be experiencing substance misuse.  

Some of the signs of substance misuse include:  

Signs of alcohol misuse

  • Struggling to limit the amount of alcohol you consume.
  • Setting drinking limits but failing to stick to them.
  • Spending a lot of time buying alcohol, drinking, or recovering from alcohol use.
  • Failing to fulfill your major obligations at work, school, or home due to repeated alcohol use. 

Signs of cannabis misuse

  • Using more cannabis than you intend to.
  • Trying but failing to quit using cannabis.
  • Using cannabis even though it causes problems at home, school, or work.
  • Using cannabis in high-risk situations, such as while driving a car. 

If these signs sound like you or another Spartan you know, review our Resources and Support. 

Spartan Smart Class

Have you been directed to take our Spartan Smart class? Learn more, find class fees, and register at our webpage. 

Learn About Spartan Smart

Presentations and Outreach 

Fill out our Outreach Request form to request a presentation, Know Your Solo supplies, or harm reduction materials for your organization.  

Request Outreach

Sanctioned Substance Use Assessment 

Have you been referred for a substance use assessment? These sessions can help you understand how substance use can affect your goals and offer resources for needed care. 

Learn About the Assessment

Additional Resources 

Guidelines on Alcohol and Parties: Review the City of East Lansing’s tips and suggestions for safe and legal celebrations, with opportunities for presentations to neighborhood and student organizations. 

University of Vermont T-Break GuideReview University of Vermont’s T-Break Guide if you are interested in taking a voluntary pause from cannabis use and are interested in guidance to do so. 

Contact Us 

To learn more about our program or if you have questions, please email spartansmart@msu.edu.