Safety

7 things to know about drug-facilitated sexual assault

Anonymous — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:11:11 +0000

7 things to know about drug-facilitated sexual assault Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 03/27/2026 - 10:11

If you or a friend is concerned that a drug-facilitated sexual assault has happened, you can reach out to OVA for free and confidential support.

Sexual assaults are often carried out by friends, acquaintances, partners, exes or by a person someone has just met online or at a party. Perpetrators often rely on substances (with or without the other person’s knowledge) to commit sexual assault.

Here are seven things you should know about drug-facilitated sexual assault and drink spiking.

1. What is drug-facilitated sexual assault?

The blame for sexual assault rests with the person who committed the assault.

Many survivors have feelings of self-blame after a sexual assault, including when someone takes advantage of them through the use of alcohol or other drugs. It’s important to remember that even when someone chooses to use substances, they are not giving up their bodily autonomy or choosing to be violated.

There are two primary ways that drug-facilitated sexual assault occurs.

A person takes advantage of someone’s voluntary use of alcohol or other drugs.
A person intentionally forces someone to consume alcohol or other drugs with or without their knowledge to manipulate the situation and commit sexual assault. This can include tactics like spiking drinks.

2. What should you look out for?

If you’re at a party or out with friends, it’s important to keep an eye out for sketchy situations that may indicate that someone is trying to facilitate sexual assault by using alcohol or other drugs.

Watch out for someone who is:

Coercing or pressuring someone to drink more or to take more drugs than they are comfortable with. This might sound like “Come one, take another shot.”
Initiating sexual contact with someone because they are intoxicated.
Isolating someone from their friends or the rest of the party.
Not telling someone what is in their drink or the type of dosage of drug they are ingesting. This might sound like “It will taste good; don’t worry about what’s in it.”

3. What are some common signs of a drugged drink?

Many symptoms of drugging are similar to those someone might experience from excessive drinking or purposefully mixing substances. Often, there is a sudden change in how someone feels or behaves. These symptoms typically occur quickly even when someone has consumed very little or no alcohol, and can be intensified if they were already under the influence

Signs of drugging to watch for:

Sudden onset of feeling drunk without having had much or any alcohol
Sudden difficulty breathing
Sudden dizziness, disorientation or blurred vision
Sudden nausea
Sudden body temperature that may result in sweating or teeth chattering
Waking up with no memory or missing large portions of memory

4. What should you do if you believe someone has been drugged?

You do not need to know if what you are witnessing is the outcome of a drugged drink, overdose, or alcohol poisoning to be able to offer help. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above in yourself or someone else, find a trusted person immediately. If someone is losing consciousness, put them in the recovery position.

Learn how to respond in alcohol or other drug emergencies

Friends and bystanders are particularly important in situations when someone is vulnerable due to intoxication. Stay with the person you are concerned about. If they are alert enough to leave the party or bar, use the buddy system to try and get them home or to emergency care.

Learn effective intervention strategies

If someone tells you after the fact that they can’t remember what happened during a night out or that their drink was drugged, offer support. You can validate how that must feel for them and aka their lead on how they might want to move forward.

5. What are some medical options?

Find support resources or a medical center that can provide medical forensic exams for sexual assault and test blood and/or urine for substances.

CU Medical Services at Wardenburg Health Center provides urine testing for drugs, pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The two local hospitals with 24/7 nurses trained in medical forensic exams can be found here.

If someone suspects that they have been drugged, steps can be taken to preserve evidence for a possible criminal investigation. Many of these drugs leave the body quickly (typically within 12 to 72 hours). If someone can’t go to the hospital immediately, they can save their urine in a clean, sealable container as soon as possible and place it in the fridge. Urine drug screen samples are stable at room temperature for up to 36 hours. However, if the sample is not tested immediately, it should be refrigerated at 2-8 degrees Celsius for a maximum of four days.

6. What substances can be used to facilitate sexual assault?

Alcohol is the most used substance in drug-facilitated sexual assault.

Other substances can also be slipped into alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. This is often referred to as drink spiking. Many drugs do not change the color, flavor, or odor of the beverage.

Substances that are often used to spike drinks include:

Prescription drugs like sleep aids, anxiety medication, muscle relaxers and/or tranquilizers.
Over- the- counter medications like Benadryl, which can increase intoxication when mixed with alcohol.
Street drugs like GHB, Rohypnol (‘roofies’), ecstasy, molly and/or ketamine (K).

7. What support resources are available?

If someone believes that they have been drugged or sexually assaulted, there are resources available to help.

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) - Confidential resource
OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling services for students, staff and faculty who have experienced and/or witnessed a traumatic or disturbing event, including sexual assault, physical assault, and/or drugging.

Don’t Ignore It
The Don’t Ignore It website provides information about reporting, getting support and helping a friend. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t ignore it.

Police
To have a case investigated by law enforcement, contact the police department where the experience happened. If it happens on campus or one is not sure about the jurisdiction, contact CU Boulder Police (CUPD) for support. For emergencies, call or text 911. The CUPD non-emergency line is 303-492-6666 or visit the website.

Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC)
OIEC implements and enforces university policies around sexual assault, intimate partner abuse and stalking, and other forms of sexual misconduct. If you or someone you know at CU has been impacted, reports can be filed online. Anonymously reporting is an option as well.

Support for international students, staff and faculty
Individuals who have experienced certain crimes, such as sexual assault or domestic violence, may be eligible for U.S. immigration relief through the U visa or VAWA self-petition, regardless of their immigration status. Please speak with an immigration attorney or a non-profit organization that assists immigrants to learn more about the eligibility requirements, application process, and timeline. Learn more about free or low-cost legal immigration services.

Alcohol and other substances are often used to commit sexual assault. Here are some things you should know about drug-facilitated sexual assault and drink spiking.

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3 things everyone should know about stalking

Emily Sampl — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

3 things everyone should know about stalking Emily Sampl Mon, 01/12/2026 - 00:00

January is Stalking Awareness Month

Popular culture, like shows and movies, can make it seem like persistence is the key to winning someone over. However, persistence can quickly turn into discomfort or fear when it’s unwelcome. Here are a few things everyone should know about stalking.

1. Stalking can take many forms

Stalking can include a variety of tactics, both in person and online, of persistent unwanted behavior or contact, directed at a specific person, which causes that person to change their routine or feel afraid, threatened or in danger.

Appropriate behaviors are: When someone says “no” and the other person respectfully leaves them alone and does not attempt to contact them again.
Concerning behaviors are: When someone says “no” and the other person continues to contact them again and again.

Examples of stalking behaviors may include:

Continually sending unwanted communications (including emails, texts, phone calls, handwritten notes, etc.).
Contacting or using other people to get information about a person or to find them.
Waiting for someone or showing up at places where they know the person will be such as their home, workplace or outside of classrooms.
Watching or following someone from a distance or spying on someone with a listening device, camera, tracking device or GPS.
Repeatedly leaving unwanted gifts, notes or other objects at a person’s residence, work, car or other location.
Catfishing or friending someone through fake accounts (to harass or trick the person).
Stealing or harming someone’s technological devices, schoolwork or other property, sentimental objects, people close to them or pets.
Entering someone’s home, lab, office or car and doing things to let someone know they had been there.
Hacking into someone’s social media, email or other accounts.

Here are some ways to identify appropriate and concerning behaviors that may prompt someone to seek additional help or support: /ova/difference-between-helpful-and-unhelpful-behaviors-relationships

2. Context is key

While stalking is often directed at a previous or current romantic partner, someone can also be stalked by roommates, friends, classmates, colleagues or someone they have never met or barely know, including matches on dating apps.

Gift giving, location tracking or sending multiple texts can be components of any relationship. It can feel really special for a roommate to bring a coffee just because they care or have friends checking an app to make sure someone got home safe. The key here is that these behaviors are wanted and help increase a sense of safety within the relationship instead of making someone feel untrusted or controlled.

From the outside, stalking may look innocuous, but to the person experiencing it, the behavior makes them feel unsafe or threatened. The context of the behavior and the impact it has on the recipient is what matters.

3. Help is available

It is worth noticing when someone else continues to contact you or your friend after they have been told “no” more than once. Consider sharing what is happening with someone else, or documenting dates and times of occurrences.

You do not have to resolve this on your own, especially when someone repeatedly shows up where they ought not be, makes indirect threats, or does not take “no” for an answer. Confidential advocates, law enforcement, and other professionals are here to help.

When someone makes direct threats or tries to harm or does harm another person or property, consider calling 911.

Stalking violates CU’s campus policies and is considered a serious crime in Colorado. CU Boulder provides a number of reporting and support options for those experiencing stalking.

Support resources for students, staff and faculty

If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking behaviors, it’s important to connect them with appropriate support resources and services.

General support

The Don’t Ignore It website provides options for seeking confidential support on and off campus, skills for helping others and reporting options related to sexual misconduct, stalking, intimate partner abuse, harassment and discrimination, and if someone’s behavior is concerning.

Confidential support

Students, staff and faculty directly impacted by incidents like this, as well as witnesses and friends, can get confidential support and/or counseling through the Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) by calling 303-492-8855, stopping by their drop-in hours (see website for dates and times) or filling out a confidential request form online. This form will only be reviewed by OVA staff—the university will not be notified, and no investigative action will take place. If you would like to get in contact with an OVA advocate counselor, be sure to include your contact information. OVA advocate counselors can help individuals explore their rights and options, make a safety plan, explore the impact of the experience, discuss reporting options, review living situations and more.

Informing the University

If you think you or a friend may be experiencing stalking, you can contact CU’s Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC). OIEC can investigate concerns or address an incident through informal resolution options. Additionally, OIEC can provide safety and supportive measures, such as no contact orders, academic support remedies, housing adjustments and more. You can connect with OIEC by calling 303-492-2127, emailing oiec@colorado.edu or filling out a report online.

Informing Law enforcement

Reporting to the police can take many forms and doesn’t have to lead to filing criminal charges. An informational or anonymous report is sometimes an option to make the police aware of the situation. Individuals may have the option to ask police to contact the person to give a verbal warning or press criminal charges. If stalking behaviors have occurred on campus, contact the CU Boulder Police Department. Otherwise, contact your local police department.

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5 things everyone should know about fentanyl

Anonymous — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

5 things everyone should know about fentanyl Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 11/07/2025 - 00:00

Boulder County Public Health (BCPH) is urging caution following the discovery of a powdered form of fentanyl circulating in the county’s illicit drug market.

Learn more

Colorado has seen an increase in fentanyl overdoses over the past year. Here are five things everyone should know about fentanyl.

What is fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than heroin or morphine.

Drug traffickers often mix fentanyl into other drugs because it is cheap to manufacture and a small amount goes a long way.

Why is fentanyl dangerous?

Fentanyl is often mixed into other substances or marketed as substances other than fentanyl, such as prescription medications. This can be dangerous because individuals often consume fentanyl without knowing it or meaning to, which can result in accidental overdoses or death.

Fentanyl is often added to:

Powders (like cocaine)
Capsules
Pressed pills meant to look like prescription medications (like Xanax or Oxy/M30s)
… and much more!

Experts consider 2 mg of fentanyl to be lethal, but many counterfeit pills contain up to 5 mg (more than twice the lethal dose). This amount is incredibly small. Check out the image to the side for scale to see what 2 mg of fentanyl looks like.

Important: While these drugs have tested positive for fentanyl by public health agencies, it’s important to remember that any pill or drug sold on the internet, on the streets or by a person you know could contain a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl.

How common is fentanyl?

Fentanyl may be more common than you think.

Colorado authorities have seen a large influx of fentanyl over the past year and are expecting to see an increase in overdoses in the coming months. In fact, the CDC announced that fentanyl is now the leading cause of death among adults 18 to 45 in the United States.

Additionally, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), nearly half of all counterfeit pills tested contained a lethal dose of fentanyl. This figure is particularly alarming because it can be difficult to distinguish genuine pills from fake or counterfeit versions. Check out the examples below to see how counterfeit pills can be designed to look just like genuine pharmaceuticals.

How common is fentanyl?

Fentanyl may be more common than you think.

Tips for staying safe

While fentanyl can be lethal, there are things you can do to help protect yourself and your friends. Here are some tips and strategies you can use to prevent accidental overdoses.

Please note: Due to the unpredictability of fentanyl, there is no foolproof way to eliminate the risk of overdose.

Know what you’re getting into

Assume that any pill or drug not purchased directly from a pharmacy could contain fentanyl. This includes illicit drugs (cocaine, heroin, meth, etc.) as well as prescription medications (Xanax, Oxycodone, etc.).

Have naloxone on hand

Carry naloxone and make sure you know how to use it.

Naloxone is an FDA-approved medication that can be used to temporarily reverse opioid overdoses. Naloxone is typically administered through a nasal spray, but it also comes in an injectable from. This medication help can temporarily reverse opioid overdoses, but it can wear off quickly or require additional doses for fentanyl.

All CU Boulder students, staff and faculty can pick up free naloxone from Health Promotion on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.

Learn more about naloxone and how to use it

Watch this video on when and how to use naloxone

Be prepared to call for help

Look for these signs:

Pinpoint (small) pupils
Shallow or no breathing
Blue or grayish lips/fingernails
No response to stimulus (i.e. being pinched)
Gurgling/heavy wheezing or snoring sound

If signs of an overdose are present:

Ask if the person is alright and look for a response
Make a fist, and use your knuckles to apply downward pressure to their sternum (do not hit them); this is a test to see if they respond to the pain stimulus

If they do not respond:

Call 911
Administer naloxone if available
Start CPR

Naloxone will not harm someone who is not overdosing—when in doubt use it!

Important policies to know

CU Boulder Amnesty Policy

Calling for help in an alcohol- or drug-related emergency means neither the person who calls for help nor the person who needs help will be subject to formal disciplinary sanctions by the university (i.e., probation, suspension, expulsion).

To be covered by the Amnesty Policy, a student must:

Call for help (911 or university staff).
Stay with the individual until help arrives.
Cooperate with staff and emergency responders.

911 Good Samaritan Law

The 911 Good Samaritan Law states that a person is immune from criminal prosecution for an offense when the person reports, in good faith, an emergency drug or alcohol overdose even to a law enforcement officer, to the 911 system or to a medical provider.

This same immunity applies to persons who remain at the scene of the event until a law enforcement officer, or an emergency medical responder arrives, or if the person remains at the facilities of the medical provider until a law enforcement officer, emergency medical responder or medical provider arrives. The immunity described above also extends to the person who suffered the emergency drug or alcohol overdose event.

Avoid using substances alone

If you can’t be in the company of someone else who is sober, plan to have someone check in on you in case you need help. If you are with friends who are also using, have someone else check in on all of you. It’s also important to have naloxone on hand. Ensure that everyone knows where to access it and how to use it in case of an emergency.

Start small and go slow

Start with a very small dose every time you use something that could be contaminated with fentanyl. Because fentanyl is often mixed in with other substances in large batches, the amount present in a single pill or drug can vary widely. One pill may be fine, and the next may not be.

Test for fentanyl

There are a number of test strips you can use to test for fentanyl. However, it’s important to know that a negative result does not mean there is no fentanyl present. It is possible for fentanyl to exist in an untested area of a pill or for the pill to contain a different synthetic opioid product.

Sobriety can reduce tolerance

If you’ve used fentanyl or other substances in the past and have recently experienced a period of sobriety, your tolerance for the drug has likely decreased. If you choose to use again, be mindful of potential changes in drug potency and start with a smaller dose than you might have used in the past. These strategies can help you avoid an accidental overdose or other unwanted experiences.

What resources are available?

Campus resources

There are resources available to support students, staff, faculty and families at CU Boulder.

Resources for students
- Learn how to connect with campus resources for undergraduate and graduate students.
Resources for staff and faculty
- Learn how to find support for yourself, a student or a colleague.
Resources for families
- Learn how you can support your student.
General information
- Learn about prevention, harm reduction and substance use at CU Boulder.

Community resources

Students, staff, faculty and community members can also access resources outside the university.

Boulder Works Program
- The Works Program is a free, legal and anonymous harm reduction program that provides free supplies, disposal programs and referrals. Their goal is to reduce the rsiks of disease and overdose deaths across Boulder County communities.
Stop the Clock
- There is a fatal overdose in Colorado every 4 hours, 45 minutes and 9 seconds. Stop the Clock connects community members with pharmacies and other sites that offer naloxone.
Boulder County Substance Use Advisory Group
- The Substance Use Advisory Group is working toward preventing fatal overdoses, destigmatizing substance use disorders (SUDs), promoting harm reduction and supporting affected individuals into treatment and recovery.
Substance use hotline
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information hotline for individuals and families facing mental health and/or substance use disorders.

Colorado has seen an increase in fentanyl overdoses over the past year. Here are five things everyone should know about fentanyl and how to stay safe.

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5 things to know if you regularly use THC

Lynia Herrington — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000

5 things to know if you regularly use THC Lynia Herrington Thu, 04/10/2025 - 23:00

In college you may or may not choose to experiment with THC, whether medically, recreationally or as a part of your daily life.

Your wellness matters, and you have the power to choose your if and how to use. Health & Wellness Services is here to support you.

1. Know your 'why'

Like any substance, it’s important to be mindful of your motivations and intentions around your use. You may choose to use THC for a variety of reasons, including:

Relieving stress or anxiety
Relaxing
Socializing or bonding with friends
Sleeping
Medicinal benefits
Something else

If you choose to use THC, try identifying your ‘why.’ Reflecting on the reasons for use can help you stay mindful and evaluate the wanted and unwanted impacts it may be having on your life.

2. Recognize signs of tolerance, dependency and withdrawl

Regular THC use can lead to changes in your body and brain, including tolerance, dependency and withdrawal symptoms.

Tolerance

Using a substance over time can build tolerance. Tolerance is a sign that the brain is changing in response to regular THC use. This can show up in a number of different ways including:

Not feeling as high as you did when you first started
Needing to use more frequently
Needing higher potency (like using concentrates rather than flower)
Using a higher dose or quantity to feel the same high

If you experience symptoms of tolerance, you may consider taking a tolerance break (t-break) to help reduce your tolerance and cravings. If you use THC most days, consider taking a break from using it for about 21 days. This will help much of the THC leave your system and reset your body’s baseline.

Dependency and withdrawal

Dependence happens when your brain has changed enough that not using THC can result in unwanted and uncomfortable symptoms, including withdrawal.

Identifying THC dependence can be tricky, because some of the top reasons people use THC are driven by withdrawal symptoms. For example:

Those who use to reduce stress and anxiety may experience worsening symptoms of anxiety, restlessness and depression when they stop or reduce their use due to withdrawal.
Those who use to sleep may also have increased insomnia when not using, due to withdrawal, and lack quality sleep when they do use.

Additional symptoms of THC withdrawal can include things like:

Anger, irritability and aggression
Nervousness and anxiety
Restlessness
Decreased appetite or weight
Depression
Cravings or a strong urge to use again
Sleep issues like insomnia, unsettling dreams or lack of quality sleep
Tremors
Headaches and sweating
Abdominal pain or discomfort, nausea and vomiting

Knowing what withdrawal symptoms look like and how they may be showing up for you can help you evaluate whether you are being affected by THC dependence. If you find yourself experiencing these symptoms after pausing or stopping your THC use, you may be experiencing dependency and withdrawal.

3. Take note of other impacts

While withdrawal symptoms are an important part in identifying dependency, THC use can have impacts on other areas of your life, too, including:

Relationships
Work
Academic performance
Mental health
Finances
Recreation or hobbies
Legal concerns

Craving or ‘needing’ THC despite these impacts can be an additional sign of tolerance or dependence.

4. Be mindful of your mental health

If you or your friends use THC regularly, it’s important to be mindful of how THC can impact mental health. Regular THC use is correlated with a number of concerns, including:

Worsening existing mental health conditions
Increased suicidal ideation and attempts
Losing touch with reality
Delusions and paranoia
Hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there
Disorganized thinking and speech

While some of these experiences are part of the high, they can also be connected to increased psychosis, where individuals lose touch with reality.

If you are worried about someone’s safety, call 911 right away. It’s also important to keep in mind that CU Boulder’s Amnesty Policy and Colorado’s Good Samaritan Law can protect those who call for help in drug-related emergencies.

If you are concerned about yourself or a friend, but they are not in immediate danger, you can also call Counseling and Psychiatric Services at their 24/7 support line (303-492-2277). They can provide information and suggestions about what to do.

5. Consider your use moving forward

Being mindful of the wanted and unwanted impacts of THC is necessary to help you make more informed choices about how you use. Cannabis impacts everyone differently, and there are many ways to modify your current use, including:

Cutting back (using less often)
Using lower potency THC
Using a less THC per occasion
Taking a break (t-break)
Seeking recovery
Connecting with outside support

If you would like help exploring your relationship with THC, Health Promotion offers free substance use workshops for all students. The Collegiate Recovery Community also provides weekly support meetings, substance-free activities and other resources for individuals pursuing or in recovery.

You can also sign up to participate in the CUChange LOTUS Study, which aims to investigate whether CBD could be a viable intervention for people who want to quit or significantly reduce their consumption fo high potency THC concentrates.

Check out these five things to know if you regularly use THC.

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Drinking and sex: Tricky questions (and surprising answers)

Emily Sampl — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Drinking and sex: Tricky questions (and surprising answers) Emily Sampl Wed, 04/02/2025 - 00:00

Sometimes drinking can lead to unintended consequences (like hooking up with a roommate or kissing your ex). Navigating sex can be complicated, especially if alcohol or other drugs are involved.

Here are answers to some of the trickier questions around drinking, sex and consent.

What is consent and how is it given?

Consent is when people mutually agree to engage in sexual activities, whether it’s kissing, touching or sex. Consent consists of words or actions that create a clear understanding of what’s desired. It’s essential for making sex pleasurable.

It’s important to establish consent before fooling around. Consent is about setting personal boundaries and respecting the boundaries of others. It’s important to check in if you’re unsure or things seem unclear.

Here are some consent essentials:

No one should be incapacitated by drugs or alcohol.
Someone can change their mind at any time during a sexual encounter and that choice must be respected.
Agreements are conditional. For instance, if you consent to sex with a condom and your partner doesn’t use one, that’s not consent.
Consenting to one sexual activity doesn’t mean you’ve consented to others. For instance, just because you are making out with someone doesn’t mean that you’ve automatically consented to have sex with them.

Is sex always considered nonconsensual when people have been drinking?

No. The use of alcohol or other drugs, in and of itself, doesn’t automatically mean a person is unable to consent. However, alcohol and drugs make it more difficult for someone to notice their own boundaries, other’s boundaries and clearly consent. When in doubt, it’s best to hold off on engaging in any sexual activity. Additionally, substance use cannot be used as a defense against allegations of sexual misconduct.

If you and your partner have been drinking at all, it’s best to check in verbally before having sex and during sex.

Ask things like:

"How much have you had to drink?"
"Are you feeling buzzed or drunk?"
"Are you feeling sober enough for sex or should we hold off?
Do you still feel like you’re in a good headspace for hooking up?
Do you want to keep going?
Do you want to stop?

Listen to your partner, pay attention to nonverbal cues and respect their boundaries. If they have difficulty responding to questions or aren't answering directly, stop until you know clearly what they want.

How much does someone need to drink before they can no longer give consent?

The impact of alcohol and other drugs varies from person to person. However, if someone is incapacitated for whatever reason, they are no longer able to give consent.

Incapacitation is a state where someone cannot make a rational, reasonable decision because they may lack the capacity to understand the “who, what, where, when and why” of a sexual interaction. Incapacitation is often associated with alcohol or other drug use, but it can also involve other factors like sleep, illness, injury or disability. Here are some signs that indicate a person may be incapacitated and is unable to give consent:

Disorientation. Someone may lose track of where they are or who they are with, seem confused, forget basic information or repeat themselves (lack of short-term memory).
Loss of motor control. Someone may have difficulty performing tasks like inserting a key into a lock, getting something out of their wallet, walking on their own or dressing and undressing themselves.
Unconsciousness. Someone may be unconscious, which includes being asleep.

If these factors are present, consent is not possible regardless of what the person is saying or doing.

Engaging in sexual activity when someone could have understood the other person to be incapacitated is considered sexual assault.

What if people are in a relationship?

In many relationships, consent doesn’t always entail an explicit conversation about sex every time it happens. However, romantic or sexual involvement with someone doesn’t give that person permission to have unwanted sex or contact with someone. The inability for there to be consent when someone is incapacitated still applies even in relationships.

What if people want to have sex while under the influence?

Intentionally choosing to be under the influence of alcohol or another drug while having sex may be something to discuss with your partner when you are both sober. Because consent is ongoing, people who while sober agreed to an intoxicated sexual experience can still change their mind once they are high or tipsy. Alcohol and other drugs can impact the way we communicate, which makes checking in with yourself and with your partner even more important.

If you or your partner become so high or drunk that either one of you are incapacitated (disoriented, loss of motor control, unconscious) or unable to make decisions, sex needs to stop. In that case, consent is not possible.

Campus resources

Don’t Ignore It is an online resource to explore your options for seeking confidential support, reporting concerns and learning skills for helping others. If something seems off, it probably is – don’t ignore it.

The Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) provides free and confidential trauma-focused counseling and advocacy support to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as staff and faculty. They can help people navigate resources, explore all their different rights and options and/or help with processing and healing from the impact of the experience.

The Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC) implements and enforces university policies around sexual misconduct, intimate partner abuse and stalking, among other unwelcome behaviors. If you or someone you know in the CU community has been impacted, reports can be filed online. Individuals can also report something anonymously to OIEC.

Navigating sex can be complicated, especially if alcohol or other drugs are involved. Here are answers to some of the trickier questions around drinking, sex and consent.

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9 things everyone should know about cannabis

Lynia Herrington — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 17:44:08 +0000

9 things everyone should know about cannabis Lynia Herrington Thu, 02/29/2024 - 10:44

Marijuana and its active components (such as THC and CBD, among other cannabinoids) exist in many forms and strengths and can affect people in different ways.

It’s important to remember that not everyone uses substances in college. In fact, according to the National College Health Assessment, two-thirds of CU students reported not having used marijuana within the past three months.

If you are thinking about using, are currently using or have friends who use cannabis, here are some things to consider.

1. Intention matters

Like any other substance, marijuana can create wanted and unwanted effects. It’s important to keep in mind that it can also impact everyone differently and those impacts may change over time.

If you choose to use marijuana, think through the experiences you want to have as well as those you’d rather avoid. Knowing what you want from marijuana may help reduce the chances of unwanted experiences and improve the likelihood that you’ll experience the outcome you want. It’s also important to keep in mind that like any substance, marijuana can impact people in unpredictable or unforeseen ways, even when used mindfully.

Here are a few examples of desirable or undesirable experiences people might hope to have or not have related to using marijuana.

It's important to keep in mind that marijuana can impact everyone differently and that those impacts may change over time. Cannabis use under the age of 25 can also impact brain development.

Potential wanted outcomes

Feel calm and relaxed
Reduce feelings of anxiety, depression or worries
Socialize more easily
Reduce physical symptoms related to other conditions (e.g., pain)
Altered sensory experiences (e.g., music, food, movies, art, etc.)
Laugh and enjoy the moment

Potential unwanted outcomes

Have memory problems
Aggravate mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, psychosis, etc.)
Negatively impact my school, work or relationships
Feeling tired during the day due to lower quality sleep
Legal consequences
Losing control of self, doing things I wouldn’t normally do
Addiction, dependence or long-term health effects (e.g., cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome)
‘Greening out’ (i.e., feeling sick, vomiting, zoning out, difficulty engaging with activities or others, etc.)

2. Products can vary in potency

Serving sizes can vary between different forms of marijuana products.

As marijuana potency has increased by four or five times over the past few decades, it’s more important now than ever to be aware of how different products may affect you.

Potency can vary between different forms of marijuana. If you choose to use, go with products that are within your limits. If you’re unsure of a product’s potency, limit how much you use to start until you better understand how it affects you. You can always increase your dosage over time depending on the effects.

Flowers and concentrates

Flower (marijuana in its plant form) is less potent than concentrates (hash oil, wax, shatter, dabs, resins, etc.). Here are some standard potency ranges for these products based on the percentage of THC.

Flower (bud): 10% to 30%
Concentrates (oils, hash, dabs, wax): 40% to 90%

Edibles

Edibles do not have a standard potency, and the amount of THC in an edible will vary from product to product. Keep in mind that your own tolerance may affect how serving sizes impact you. If it’s your first time using edibles, start with a smaller amount. Colorado labels consider a single serving size to be 10mg of THC, but this amount may lead to unwanted experiences, especially if you have a lower tolerance.

Always refer to product packaging to check serving sizes before using. It’s also important to remember that it may take 2 hours for edibles to begin to take effect and up to 4 hours to feel the full effect.

Tips for understanding marijuana packaging:

Cannabis products are labeled with information about the type of marijuana (indica, sativa, etc.) as well as the percent potency of THC for flower and concentrates. The higher the percentage, the more potent the product is and the stronger the effect will be. It’s important to note that most products include a disclaimer, because potency can vary by about 15% in either direction. Keep this information in mind when selecting products and calculating doses.

Edibles are typically labeled with information about how many milligrams (mg) of THC is in the food item. Keep in mind that some products will require you to split the doses yourself. For example, you may need to cut the item in half or quarters before consuming.

3. Start low and go slow

If you’ve never used marijuana before, are trying a new product or are unsure of your tolerance, start with a smaller amount and go slow until you know how it will affect you. This is especially important when experimenting with edibles and concentrates. Look for products with lower THC levels and wait to see how it affects you before consuming more.

4. Hold off on activities that may pose higher risks

It’s recommended to wait at least 3 to 6 hours after vaping or smoking and 6 to 8 hours after consuming edibles before engaging in higher risk activities like driving, skiing or swimming. Keep in mind that these times can vary depending on your tolerance and use. In some cases, you may need to wait longer than the recommended times.

5. Reduce your frequency

Like other substances, frequent use of marijuana can increase your tolerance, which means it may take more to achieve the same effect. This can often lead to dependence, which occurs when your body adapts to a particular drug or substance, leading you to desire larger or more frequent doses.

Using marijuana less frequently has also been shown to lower the risk of dependency, negative mental health symptoms and long-term health effects. Not sure if you need to reduce your frequency?

Here are a few questions to help you reflect on your current use:

Is my consumption adversely affecting my productivity, school performance or job performance?
Is my consumption interfering with my relationships?
Is my consumption impacting my memory?
Am I feeling more fatigued than I’d like to be?
Am I breaking my own rules or limits around marijuana use?
How is my use impacting me financially?

6. Store marijuana products safely

Keep marijuana products in their original packaging so they are easily identifiable. Be sure to store them in a safe area that cannot be accessed by pets or young children. If a pet or child consumes any marijuana products, call a vet or health care provider right away.

7. Use with people you trust

Using marijuana with people you know, trust and feel comfortable with is more likely to result in a positive experience. If you feel pressured to use more than you’re comfortable with, come up with ways you can say “no.” For example, you could say, “No thanks, I need to drive home later” or “I’m going to start with this and see how it goes.”

8. Avoid sharing

Avoid “puff and pass” rotations and do not share joints, bongs, pipes, vaporizers or other personal items with others. Sharing can put you at a higher risk of exposure to a variety of infections and diseases like the cold, flu, meningitis or mono, which can all be transferred from person to person through saliva. Sharing with friends may also mean you’re getting higher doses of THC than you’re used to.

9. Avoid mixing

Mixing two or more substances can make it challenging to predict what is going to happen or how you will be affected. Additionally, two or more substances used together can result in adverse side effects. Play it safe by only using one substance at a time.

Campus resources

Free workshops

Health Promotion offers a variety of workshops that provide students with a safe, non-judgmental space where they can explore their relationship with substance use and discuss personal experiences. Students of all levels of use and non-use are welcome.

Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)

The CUCRC provides support meetings, recovery-focused housing, events and activities, peer support and more for students in recovery or interested in pursuing recovery from drugs, alcohol, eating disorders, self-harm, other addictions and unwanted behaviors.

Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD)

The AOD website includes information, support resources, policies, reports and more related to alcohol and other drugs at CU Boulder.

Marijuana policy

Be informed about marijuana laws and CU’s Student Code of Conduct (PDF).
Marijuana possession and use is only legal in Colorado for adults 21+ (18+ for medical marijuana). Underage use is subject to an MIP ticket, fines and CU sanctions.
It is illegal for anyone (regardless of age) to have or use marijuana on campus in any form, even with a prescription.
Being under the influence of marijuana is a violation of the CU drug policy and may result in student conduct sanctions and processes.
Driving high could land you with a DUI. Wait before getting behind the wheel.
It’s illegal to take marijuana products out of the state. Additionally, Denver International Airport has banned the possession of marijuana products on its property.
Using marijuana in any form (smoking, eating or vaping) isn’t allowed in public places. Smoking and vaping are also in violation of the university’s smoke-free campus policy.

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6 tips to help prevent sexual assault

Anonymous — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

6 tips to help prevent sexual assault Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 10/25/2023 - 00:00

Halloween celebrations that involve alcohol and other substances can also make it easier for problematic behaviors and unwelcome advances to go unnoticed. Here are some tips to stay safe and have fun over Halloween weekend.

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4 things everyone should know about naloxone

Anonymous — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 15:16:10 +0000

4 things everyone should know about naloxone Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 03/07/2023 - 08:16

Knowing how to use naloxone to respond to potential overdoses can save lives. Here are a few things to know about overdose prevention and naloxone availability on campus.

What is naloxone?

Naloxone is an FDA-approved medication that can temporarily reverse opioid overdoses without a prescription. Naloxone is most commonly available as a nasal spray. Depending on the type or severity of overdose a person is experiencing, one or more doses of naloxone may be needed to effectively revive them.

It’s also important to keep in mind that naloxone is safe to use, even if the individual is not actually overdosing. If in doubt, use it.

Important note: Naloxone is the generic name for this particular drug. However, many people may know it better by its brand names like Narcan, Evzio or Kloxxado.

Who should carry naloxone?

If you or someone you know uses opioid medications, plans to experiment with prescription or illicit drugs, or is at risk of an accidental overdose, they should carry naloxone.

Here are some situations that can increase a person's risk of overdose:

Unknowingly taking a counterfeit pill that contains fentanyl or other opioids
Misunderstanding the directions for use, accidentally taking an extra dose or deliberately misusing a prescription opioid
Taking opioid medications prescribed for someone else
Mixing opioids with other medications, alcohol or over-the-counter drugs
Experimenting with illicit drugs

When should you use naloxone?

Students, staff and faculty should be prepared to help a peer or stranger in the case of a potential overdose. This includes knowing the signs of an overdose and how to respond effectively.

Signs of a potential overdose

Pinpoint (small) pupils
Shallow or no breathing
Blue or grayish lips/fingernails
No response to stimulus (i.e. being pinched)
Gurgling/heavy wheezing or snoring sound

How to respond

Immediately call 911
Administer naloxone when available*
Start CPR

Note: While one dose is usually enough to bring someone temporarily out of overdose, it is safe to give multiple doses of naloxone if an individual does not respond.

Keep in mind that naloxone can be used to reverse overdoses caused by a variety of opioids, including:

Fentanyl
Oxycodone (OxyContin®)
Hydrocodone (Vicodin®)
Codeine
Morphine
Heroin

It’s important to remember that many substances and counterfeit prescriptions can contain opioids like fentanyl. Individuals who purchase these types of drugs from a dealer, friend or roommate may consume fentanyl or other opioids without even knowing it. These are typically referred to as accidental overdoses and are unrelated to substance use disorders.

Important note: Naloxone is safe to use, even if the individual is not actually overdosing. If you’re not sure whether or not someone is overdosing, use it. This can help save a life.

How is naloxone administered?

Anyone can use naloxone without medical training. Here are some simple instructions for administering naloxone:

Review package instructions
Remove the nasal spray from its packaging
Insert the tip of the nasal spray into the person’s nose
Press the release to inject the spray
Continue to monitor the person’s condition and administer additional doses if they do not respond

Once naloxone is administered it is important to put the person into the recovery position by leaning them on their side. This will prevent the person from choking if they need to throw up. Remember that one dose of naloxone may not be enough to resuscitate a person who is overdosing. It’s also important to always call 911 in case of a potential overdose emergency.

How can you get naloxone?

Naloxone is available for free and anonymously without a prescription to all students, staff and faculty at the Health Promotion front desk on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.

Students living in residence halls can also order free naloxone and fentanyl test strips online through our Safer Night Out Buff Box program. All Buff Boxes are delivered to a student’s residence hall for easy and convenient pickup.

Important note: Naloxone is also available for purchase by students, staff, faculty, families and other community members at a variety of locations.

Support resources

Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)

The CU Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC) provides community, support and connection for students, faculty and staff in recovery or seeking recovery from a wide range of behaviors, including drug and alcohol addiction.

Student Support and Case Management (SSCM)

If you are concerned about a student, SSCM can initiate a wellness check and provide individualized support. SSCM case managers connect students with campus partners, community resources and support systems, while also building a trusting relationship.

How to refer a student to SSCM:

Fill out the online referral form
Call SSCM at 303-492-7348
Email the department at sscm@colorado.edu

Fentanyl information

The United States continue to see an influx of counterfeit prescriptions and other drugs containing fentanyl. Here are a few things everyone should know about fentanyl and overdose prevention.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

CAPS provides a number of services related to substance use, including assessments, brief individual therapy, support for concerned friends and family members, referrals to campus and community resources, including suboxone treatment.

Training opportunities

There are a variety of free training opportunities available to staff, faculty and student organizations, including:

The Opposite of Addiction is Connection
Overdose Prevention and Response
Recovery Panel
Recovery Allies

Exploring Substance Use Workshop

This workshop provides students with a safe, judgment-free space where students can explore their relationship with substance use. Students of all levels of use or non-use are welcome.

Boulder County Works Program

Boulder County Public Health’s Works Program is a confidential, judgment-free harm reduction program that provides free:

Naloxone
Fentanyl test strips
Overdose prevention materials
Referrals to treatment and community services
… and more!

Community members are welcome to stop by any of their locations to pick up free supplies.

Stop the Clock

Over 200 Pharmacies in Colorado carry naloxone. Stop the Clock is a free tool that can help you find local pharmacies that carry naloxone.

[video:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/d7LjUz3RvV8]

Knowing when and how to use naloxone can save lives. Here are a few things to know about overdose prevention and naloxone availability on campus.

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7 things to know about vaping

Anonymous — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000

7 things to know about vaping Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 09/14/2022 - 00:00

While vaping can serve as an alternative to cigarette smoking, it still poses a number of inherent risks, especially for young adults. Most vape products contain nicotine, the same highly addictive substance found in cigarettes and other tobacco products.

In addition to nicotine, many vape juices contain ingredients like propylene glycol, glycerol and heavy metal particles that can damage the lining of your lungs. For this reason, vapes should be used with caution.

Here are seven things you should know if you choose to vape.

1. Weigh the benefits and drawbacks

If you currently vape or are thinking about trying it, take some time to reflect on your use. This can help you have more control over your experiences when vaping. To get started, think about the feelings, actions or benefits you want to experience while vaping. Next, think through some of the things you want to avoid experiencing.

Here are a few examples to get you started.

If I choose to vape, I want to:

Reduce my cigarette or tobacco use
Socialize with friends
Feel buzzed
Enjoy the flavor

If I choose to vape, I don’t want to:

Become addicted or dependent on nicotine
Experience health problems or negative side effects
Spend too much money on a vaping habit

Working through these types of exercises can be a great way to explore or modify your choices around vaping.

2. Labels matter

While most vape juice contains nicotine, there are a number of options available that are nicotine-free. These can be a better alternative for those who vape but want to avoid the addictive effects. If you do choose to use nicotine-based products, look for lower-dose options (1.5-3 mg). Opting for lower nicotine levels can help to satisfy cravings without overloading your system.

3. Not all vapes are created equal

Dosage matters, and the device you use is just as important. Power (wattage) can vary from device to device. Knowing the wattage of your device can help you make better decisions around dosage. High-powered devices like box vapes (20+ watts), should be used with low dose juices (less than 3 mg) in order to reduce your risk of experiencing adverse side effects.

4. Know your limits

It’s important to know your limits when it comes to vaping, especially if you are new to using nicotine. Your tolerance may not be as high as those that vape or smoke more regularly, so start low and slow. Consuming too much nicotine can cause negative side effects, including…

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or stomach ache
Eye irritation
Headaches
Anxiety and restlessness
Sweating

Confusion
Difficulty breathing
Tremors
Seizures

If you experience any of these symptoms within the first 15 to 60 minutes of vaping, call the National Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222, and follow-up with your healthcare provider.

You may also want to consider reducing how often and how much you vape, which can reduce the chances of unwanted health consequences. If you’re a regular smoker or tobacco user, consider lowering your nicotine dose by at least one level when vaping.

5. Avoid sharing

Sharing isn’t always caring. In fact, sharing vapes can expose you to a number of diseases like the cold, flu, COVID, mono or meningitis, which can all be transferred from person to person through saliva. Sharing with friends may also mean you’re getting higher doses of nicotine than you’re used to. Keep yourself healthy and safe by using your own vape and keeping it clean with proper maintenance. This is especially important for those using reusable box vapes or pens that require coils or filters.

6. Vape products require special disposal

Did you know vape products are considered hazardous materials?

Avoid throwing vape products in normal trash or recycling bins. Instead, all devices, pods and batteries should be disposed of properly in designated drop boxes.

Hazardous waste drop boxes are available on campus at the University Memorial Center (UMC) on the first floor across from the Starbucks and at the West Boulder Recycling Center on 63rd Street. If you live outside of Boulder, you can use this hazardous waste facilities finder to search for disposal sites in your area.

7. Support resources are available

If you’re thinking about quitting, are not ready to quit or have already quit vaping, the Colorado QuitLine can help you with each step of the way.

Health Promotion

Health Promotion offers free resources and support to students, faculty and staff including:

Nicotine cessation coaching
Free quit kits
Tips for overcoming cravings

The Apothecary Pharmacy

The Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg offers nicotine patches and gum for sale over the counter. No prescription or insurance required.

Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)

The CUCRC offers community, support and connection for students, faculty and staff in recovery or seeking recovery from a wide range of behaviors. Recovery at the CUCRC includes substance use disorders, nicotine, caffeine, self-harm, disordered eating and other addictive behaviors.

Boulder County Public Health

Boulder County Public Health offers a number of free support services to help teens and adults quit tobacco products, including vaping.

While vaping can serve as an alternative to cigarette smoking, it still poses a number of inherent risks, especially for young adults. Here are 7 things you should know if you choose to vape.

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4 things to know about exercising after COVID-19

Anonymous — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 16:37:56 +0000

4 things to know about exercising after COVID-19 Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 10/26/2020 - 10:37

Exercise and physical activity are good for our physical and mental health. Getting at least 20 minutes of exercise per day can help improve our mood, decrease our risk for serious medical conditions and strengthen our immune systems. However, exercising while you are sick with COVID-19 or immediately after you’ve recovered can be harmful and potentially dangerous.

Dr. John Breck, lead physician at Medical Services, encourages all university members to review the following information if you plan on exercising after you are COVID-free.

Why is it a good idea to hold off on exercise?

The COVID-19 virus causes inflammation throughout the body, which can cause lung and heart damage, including heart dysfunction and abnormal heart rhythms. The risk of damage is not limited to older adults. Many young adults with COVID-19, including athletes, can also suffer from conditions like myocarditis (an inflammation of the heart muscle). These types of conditions can worsen or create dangerous situations if we over-exercise too soon after recovering from COVID-19.

How do you know when you’re ready to return to exercise?

Avoid strenuous activities and exercise for at least 7 days after your symptoms have completely resolved. Opt for gentle walking only. Before returning to other forms of exercise, you must be able to complete normal daily activities, like doing the dishes, getting dressed and completing basic household chores. You must also be able to walk at least a quarter mile on flat ground without fatigue or breathlessness.

What should you look out for?

Monitor your symptoms and exercise tolerance. Stop if you experience any chest pain, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, abnormal heartbeats, lightheadedness or other symptoms. Never assume you are just out of shape or ignore persistent fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact the Medical Services 24/7 NurseLine to discuss your symptoms with a registered nurse and to determine if you require medical attention. The NurseLine is available to students for free at 303-492-5101.

What if you’re a student athlete?

Consult a healthcare provider if you plan to return to strenuous physical activity, sports or other competition activities. You may need additional health evaluations, a physical or condition testing.

Resources

Medical Services provides physicals and other health check-ups for students who have had COVID-19. They also provide physical therapy to students who are looking to improve their performance or recover from a setback.
Students can also make a reservation to visit the Recreation Injury Care Center at the Rec Center for services, including physical evaluations, injury prevention techniques, referrals, performance and recovery strategies, taping, stretching techniques and more. All services provided by the Recreation Injury Care Center are free for students.
For additional information on COVID-19, please visit the Medical Services COVID-19 page.

More Health & Wellness Articles

Exercising while you are sick with COVID-19 or immediately after you’ve recovered can be harmful and potentially dangerous. Dr. John Breck, lead physician at Medical Services, encourages all university members to review the following information if you plan on exercising after you are COVID-free.

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