Creighton Facts
Explore the data about drinking and marijuana culture at Creighton.
The Power of Parenting
Supporting Healthy Choices
When your student transitions to college life, there are more opportunities for them to experiment with alcohol and drugs or other mind-altering substances, as well as take part in high-risk behaviors. As a member of the Nebraska Collegiate Prevention Alliance, Creighton University is committed to reducing high-risk drinking, substance misuse and related harms.
Our goal with the content you'll find below is to provide you with some talking points and tools to start the conversation with your student about alcohol and cannabis/marijuana use.
Start the conversation.
Talking to your student about alcohol and cannabis/marijuana doesn’t have to be an awkward conversation. In fact, one of the most important influences during a child’s formative years is a strong, transparent relationship with a parent. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “When parents talk to their children early and often about alcohol and other drugs, they can protect their children from many of the high-risk behaviors associated with using these drugs.”
Begin talking with your student about alcohol and cannabis/marijuana now, and keep the conversation going throughout their college career. Your partnership helps Creighton University continue the trend of drinking responsibly and avoiding illegal substances.
As a parent, you have already done a great job helping your student make better choices. However, your responsibility doesn’t stop just because they’re headed to college. Studies have shown that college students give parents a great deal of credit for guiding them toward less drinking or abstaining from drinking and cannabis/marijuana.
Ease the transition.
There are so many new experiences for young adults when they start their college career at Creighton, including:
- Balancing their courseload and life outside the classroom
- Learning to budget and manage finances
- Finding their place with new friends
- Exploring a newfound sense of independence
- Choosing to drink alcohol or use cannabis/marijuana
Communicating your expectations and sharing resources with your student can make the transition easier.
You can help your student during this transition by communicating your expectations and encouraging them to think through the outcomes of different choices. Even having short discussions frequently can significantly affect your child’s decisions and behavior.
Next Steps
Communication Tips
You can make a difference. Get tips for talking with your student.
Harm Reduction Tips
Helping your student understand how to be responsible can make their college experience safer.
Common Challenges
Read about some common responses and how to keep the conversation going.
