Alcohol and Other Drugs
We want our VCU community to have the information they need to make the safest and healthiest choices regarding alcohol or other drug use. However, even if you make the choice not to use alcohol or other drugs, there is a chance that you might be impacted by the substance use of a friend, classmate or family member. Need more info? Review the Health Effects for Major Categories of Drugs for more information.
Health Risks of Alcohol and Other Drugs
The physical effects of alcohol and other drugs (AOD) are well-documented. However, the risks and effects of these drugs vary from person to person based on factors such as frequency of use, concentration or dosage of substance, the person’s health, etc. Individuals concerned about their health or their own use or the use of a family or friend are encouraged to contact one of the resources listed on VCU Alcohol and Other Drugs Resources and FAQs.
VCU Alcohol and Other Drug Policy
The purpose of this policy is to promote the health, safety and welfare of members of the Virginia Commonwealth University community and the public served by the university. VCU recognizes that substance use disorders are treatable medical conditions. As such, this policy balances the need for VCU to support individuals seeking recovery with the safety and health of the entire university population. This policy encourages help-seeking while also outlining consequences for violation of the community standards for conduct, specifically standards regarding unauthorized substance use.
Staff and Faculty Resources
Employee Health Services
Employee Health Services provides a wide range of health and safety services to both university and health system employees. In addition to new employee screening, EHS provides clinical guidance and support to current employees and university departments with work-related and general health concerns, injuries, or exposures and preventive care.
Employee Assistance Program (or other health care provider)
Refer to the Employee Assistance Program on the Department of Human Resource Management website for links to options provided through state employee health care plans. If not covered by the state employee health benefits program, please contact your personal health care company for EAP options.
Human Resources Employee Relations
VCU’s Human Resources Office of Employee Relations provides confidential assistance to university employees, supervisors and faculty, to help resolve work-related problems. Current employees can log into InsideHR for detailed guidelines or contact VCU Human Resources Employee Relations.