Substance Use
In accordance with the mandates of federal, state, and local legislation including the Drug Free Schools and Campuses Act and Drug Free Workplace Act, the manufacture, distribution, possession or use of illicit drugs, and the unlawful possession, use or distribution of alcohol on Hood College property-or as part of any of its activities-is prohibited. Specifically, Maryland's Cannabis Reform Act (HB556/SB516) which legalized cannabis for adults aged 21 years and older in the State changes nothing at Hood College. Our policies prohibiting use, possession, or distribution of drugs, including medical and non-medial cannabis remain in effect.
A full outline of the College's alcohol and drug policies can be found in the Employee Manual located on the Human Resources webpage and Student Handbook which can be found on the Current Students webpage. These policies include the following: (1) standards of conduct; (2) possible legal sanctions and penalties; (3) statements of the health risks associated with alcohol and other drug use; (4) programs available to support students, staff, and faculty; and (5) disciplinary sanctions for violations of the standards of conduct.
As a college student, your brain is your most important asset. 1 in 4 college students say alcohol interferes with academic performance. Alcohol and drug use can jeopardize your productivity and learning, your overall health and your social relationships. You can take care of your health, wellbeing and academic success by using substances in moderation or not at all. Use and complete this anonymous screening tool from the CDC to check your drinking habits and receive feedback based on your answers. If you want to drink less, the screening tool can also help you build a plan to make healthier choices!
Curious about how the legalization of cannabis effects the Hood community? Read the infographic below for more details.
- Share or complete this anonymous screening tool from the CDC to check your drinking habits and receive feedback based on your answers. If you want to drink less, the tool can also help you build a plan to make healthier choices!
- Students can visit Hood College Health Services for a medical evaluation and consultation with a medical provider.
- Students can visit Hood College Counseling Services or the NeighborHood Counseling Training Center for a consultation. Counseling staff can support students struggling with substance use in finding a substance use provider in the community.
- Frederick County Behavioral Health Services offers confidential support in accessing treatment for substance use disorders. They also offer education on responsible drinking strategiesthrough their Rethink Your Drink campaign.
- The Maryland Collaborative is a statewide organization, of which Hood College is a member, that aims to reduce drinking and other substance use related harms on college campuses.
- The Collaborative's Resources for Parents is a great starting place for parents, families and loved ones who want to begin discussions on expectations around alcohol and other substances. Specifically, the Talking Points to Check in With Your Student Throughout the Year article is helpful.
- There are several community providers in the Frederick area that specialize in substance use treatment including the Kolmac Outpatient Recovery and The Orenda Center of Wellness. Individuals can also find a community provider using theSAMHSA Treatment Locator.
A state-mandated strategy to maintain a drug-free campus requires all public schools and institutions of higher education to begin stocking the drug Naloxone, more commonly known by its prescription name Narcan, and training staff on how to administer it. The Heroin and Opioid Education and Community Action Act of 2017, or the Start Talking Maryland Act, sets several requirements for schools in response to the continuing rise in opioid-related overdose deaths across the state.
The bill includes a clause that exempts school nurses and other personnel from personal liability while responding to an emergency and the state's Good Samaritan law protects anyone who seeks or provides medical attention during an overdose.
- Campus Safety, Wellness and Health Center staff have been trained by Frederick County Behavioral Health Services to administer Naloxone (Narcan) and have it in their offices.
- Any community member can participate in a free Overdose Response/Narcan administration training through the Frederick County Health Department. Visit their website to see upcoming trainings and events.
- Opioid overdose awareness information will be provided to incoming students during orientation and during other educational events throughout the year.
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