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The Rice Thresher
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Elizabeth Jardina Thresher news editor Students having trouble with alcohol or drugs now have another place to turn. The Rice Counseling Center is coordinating a support group for students struggling with substance abuse. "I think it's a problem at almost all universities, and Rice is no exception," Staff Psychologist Salimah Adam said. Adam, who is coordinating the group, said it will be both educational and supportive. "We will be offering students new ways of coping, healthier ways of living, and the other members of the group will be there to provide feedback on what has worked and what hasn't worked," she said. "We hope it will be a cohesive, supportive group." Adam acknowledged that a substance abuse support group is one that's initially hard to get members for. "Not many people like to come up and admit that they have a problem," she said. She emphasized that the center will keep students' problems confidential. For example, a problem with illegal drugs will not be reported to the police. "The only time we have to report anything is if the student is in danger of killing themselves or someone else, if they report the abuse of a child or an elderly person or if they're involved in a criminal pursuit," she said. "Everything else is confidential." She added that the group isn't just for people with alcohol problems. Those struggling with use of marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy or any other drug are also welcomed. "The group is really an effort for it to be non-shaming and de-emphasize stigma," Adam said. "We're really there to help, and we encourage and look forward to working with willing students who want to make a positive change in their life." For more information about the group, students should call the center at (713) 348-4867 to make an appointment for a 15-30 minute screening. Students should direct specific questions to Adam. She said the group will probably meet once a week for about an hour and a half. - Elizabeth Jardina
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