Freshers' Week can be both an exciting and scary time for students entering a new stage of life, offering independence and a plethora of new experiences. It's also a period when the NHS see spikes in incidents involving young people needing hospital help due to substance use. As a charity, we aim to highlight this often-overlooked topic to ensure students enjoy their experience safely.

Tim Young, CEO of The Alcohol and Drug Service, offers friendly advice on making the most of university life:

New surroundings, new people and new challenges. Some feel excited, some anxious at the prospect. Whichever it is, the myth that to get the most out of the situation you need to dive headfirst into a hedonistic lifestyle, is just that. A myth. However, it’s a myth that can be dangerous.

If you feel anxious. Remember, you are not the only one feeling that. Not everyone will want to get out of it. Seek them out.

If you are excited and have some experience of substance use. Remember, new place, new people, new circumstances. This is not an environment you are familiar with. Don’t get cocky.

Starting University can be a fantastic experience, but it can just as easily be the opposite. People make their worst decisions when they’re off their head. Don’t roll the dice, you may miss a great experience.

Changing Perceptions

Some universities have rebranded Freshers' Week as Welcome Week to shift focus away from hedonism. This aims to change the culture and promote a more positive and inclusive perspective. To bust the myth.

Staying safe

While we advocate avoiding illicit drugs altogether, we understand that some students may choose to experiment. Our advice is based on the reality of what people do, not just what we'd like them to do.

For those who choose to use recreational drugs:

• Remember a new intake happens at the same time every year, understand that local people who sell drugs know this. You are their target customer not their friend.
• Be aware that without drug testing facilities, you're taking a gamble. You are rolling the dice.
• Experienced users should not assume consistent strength. Leave longer periods between doses.
• In groups, watch out for each other. If anyone feels unwell, call 999 immediately and tell them what you’ve taken.

Alcohol Awareness

• Alcohol consumption often exceeds usual levels during Freshers' Week. To stay safe:
• Eat a good meal before going out.
• Drink water between alcoholic drinks.
• Don't pressure friends to drink more, or at all.
• Stay with friends and inform them if you're leaving.

Support for All

Freshers' Week can be challenging for some students who struggle to fit in or feel anxious. Many universities offer various support systems, including societies, groups, and pastoral care.

Positive Trends

It’s encouraging to see the changing culture and the measures universities are taking. More students are choosing not to drink at all, indicating a shift in attitudes. Nevertheless, the myth persists for some and for some it can be difficult to stand apart from a group.

Remember, don’t roll the dice, you may miss a great experience. Stay safe, look out for one another, and make the most of this new chapter in your life.