Self-Help & Concern for Others

Concerned about your or a friend's drinking or drug use?

Are you concerned that you or someone you know has a problem with alcohol or other drugs? Do you struggle with the misuse of alcohol, cannabis products, or prescription medications? Learn about our resources and how they can help you identify risky behaviors, and connect you with local support services. 

Urgent Concern or Crisis

If you or someone you know is experiencing an urgent concern with alcohol or drugs or in a crisis and needs immediate support, please use the resources below. 

• Call the 24/7 Penn State Crisis Line at 1-877-229-6400
• Text the 24/7 Crisis Text Line: Text “LIONS” to 741741
• Go to the Mount Nittany Medical Center Emergency Department 
• Call the Penn State Police at 814-863-1111 or call 911

The Penn State Crisis Line can also be used for consultation if you know someone or are with someone who is experiencing a crisis. 

Self-referral services

Alcohol self-referral

Are you concerned about your drinking behaviors? Answering the following questions may help you determine if you have a problem with alcohol.

1. Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?
2. Do your friends get annoyed by your drinking?
3. Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking?
4. Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to relieve anxiety or to get rid of a hangover?
5. Do you drink to reduce stress?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions it is possible that you have a problem with alcohol. If you answered “yes” to more than one, it is highly likely that you have a problem. If you think you or someone you know might have a problem with alcohol, it is important to get help right away. 

Students who self-refer to the Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students (BASICS) program will not be charged a fee to complete the program. Information shared during BASICS sessions is completely confidential and helps students explore ways to reduce future health, social, and legal risks.

Cannabis self-referral 

Students who self-refer to the Cannabis Screening & Education for College Students (CASECS) will not be charged a fee to complete the program. Information shared during CASECS sessions is completely confidential and helps students explore ways to reduce future health, social, and legal risks.

Enroll

For questions about BASICS and CASECS, or to sign up for either program, please contact Health Promotion and Wellness at 814-863-0461 or promotinghealth@psu.edu. Let a staff member know you'd like to make a free appointment to "talk to someone about alcohol/cannabis."