Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Resources

The Office of Wellbeing (OWB) is committed to reducing the negative impact of alcohol and other drugs while cultivating a healthy learning environment where HMC students can thrive. 

Alcohol and drug use are prevalent among college students. Heavy drinking has become a “rite of passage” that students often see as integral to their college experience. Party culture and substance use trends can encourage students to misuse alcohol and drugs. The challenges associated with college life such as academic pressures, separation from family, and participation in new social networks, can contribute to increased alcohol and drug abuse. There are short and long-term impacts of alcohol abuse that affect college students physically, mentally, socially and academically.

AOD Resources by OWB

OWB offers multiple resources to educate students on the effects of alcohol and drug use.

  • One-on-one appointments for consultation and referrals
  • Alcohol and Other Drug educational presentations
  • BASICS and CASICS
    • What is BASICS and CASICS?
      • BASICS stands for Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students. CASICS stands for Cannabis Screening and Intervention for College Students.
      • These programs are offered to all Harvey Mudd College students who may want to explore their alcohol and cannabis use, with the goal of reducing risky behaviors and harmful consequences of alcohol or cannabis abuse. These programs are designed to help students make better decisions about using alcohol or cannabis in a restorative and judgment-free environment.
    • Who can use BASICS/CASICS?
      • Students attend BASICS/CASICS as the result of sanction, self-report or if they have concerns about their alcohol or cannabis use. 
    • What is the BASICS/CASICS process?
      • BASICS and CASICS are one-on-one sessions with a student and an OWB Dean. To complete the program, students must attend two 1-hour sessions, typically one week apart. In Session I, the student is oriented to the program, answers interview questions, and completes an assessment. In Session II, students receive a personalized feedback report based on the information obtained during Session I. Students review the feedback profile with the OWB Dean and, if appropriate, identify potential changes that could help reduce their risk of developing future alcohol- or cannabis-related problems. 

Local and Mutual Support Groups

Find local resources and mutual support groups available outside of HMC.

National Resources

Find information, resources and programs regarding alcohol and other drugs.