Substance Harm Reduction
Western offers a variety of programs and services designed to provide support to students who are looking for substance harm reduction resources, training, and referral.
Counseling Support
The Counseling and Wellness Center provides confidential, nonjudgmental support to students who want to talk about issues regarding alcohol or other substances. If your concern is for yourself, a roommate, or someone you care about, they can provide support. They can help sort out any confusion you may have regarding the role substances may be playing in your life. They also provide free voluntary services to all Western students and coordinate enrollment in an evidence-based program that is part of the fulfillment of sanctions required by the University for students who have violated Western's alcohol and other drug policies.
Training
The Office of Health Promotion and Resilience offers free Overdose Response Training for Western students, faculty, and staff. Participants learn about harm reduction strategies including using fentanyl test strips, what an opioid overdose looks like, and how to respond appropriately by using naloxone.
The Counseling and Wellness Center offers educational sessions on alcohol and cannabis use with a focus on harm reduction, social norming, effects on the body and mind, and resources for students who would like to address substance use concerns. These sessions are open to all students and meet requirements for Office of Student Life and Residence Life referrals.
Naloxone and Fentanyl Test Strips
Western students can pick up free opioid harm reduction supplies, including naloxone ("Narcan") and fentanyl test strips from our Health Supplies Vending Machine located on the 6th floor of the Viking Union or by ordering through our Health Supplies by Mail program.
Prescription Drug Disposal
Help keep our community safe by safely disposing of your unused and expired medications.
eCheckup To Go
The eCheckup To Go training helps you increase your self-awareness, explore your options, and make informed choices, should you choose to use alcohol, cannabis, or nicotine.
Quit Nicotine Support
Thinking of quitting smoking or vaping? You are not alone and help is available.
Print Resources
Medical Amnesty Law
An alcohol or drug overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
The Medical Amnesty Law protects you and the person who needs help from being cited for underage drinking, so call 911 and save a life!