Over the decades, Ohio University has earned a reputation as a party university. While some—myself included—may argue that the title isn’t as justified in recent years, OU has been ranked as one of the best in the country by several publications. And a big part of party culture, not just in Athens but in American party culture in general, is alcohol.
However, many people, myself included, abstain from alcohol for one reason or another. For me personally, drinking has no appeal. I also have an addictive personality, so I choose not to go down that path. Unfortunately, that makes me an outsider.
According to UC Santa Cruz, about 65% of college students have drunk alcohol in the past month. And of those who do drink, about 50% binge drink or drink excessively in a short period of time, according to the Alcohol Rehab Guide. In contrast, about 28% don’t drink at all, according to the Cleveland Clinic. That number is up from about 20% in 2002.
Binge drinking can cause a range of physical and mental health problems, including stroke, liver cancer, a weakened immune system and depression. Another effect of alcohol is personality changes, such as increased reactivity and anger.
While the percentage of students in my situation is not small, it can still feel socially isolating, especially if you don’t know others who are sober. While some universities offer social events aimed at creating a safe, alcohol-free environment, such as the University of Michigan’s Sober Skate, most colleges do not offer such events. The OU has a drug-free dorm, Bush, and a group, RISE, aimed at those struggling with addiction, but other safe spaces for the sober are few and far between.
According to a survey by Niche, OU has an A+ rating for the party scene category, with festival season and Halloween being considered the biggest social events of the year. In addition to these drinking-focused events, Athens is home to over 20 bars that only further encourage the drinking culture. For those of us who don’t participate, these events can create feelings of isolation and loneliness.
There are a few ways to combat these feelings, one of the most popular is the Dry January movement, where people are encouraged not to drink for the entire month of January. While this is a good cause to raise awareness of the negative aspects of alcohol and get people to drink less, it doesn’t address the roots of the problem, with many participants returning to their normal drinking habits shortly after.
More events on campus like UMichigan’s Sober Skate would allow more people to meet and interact in a more positive light, rather than under the influence of alcohol. Organizations and groups that aim to encourage social contact among non-drinkers in a safe environment are also crucial to combating loneliness.
Resources such as alcohol-free living clubs and events, movements such as Dry January, and raising awareness of the negative effects of alcohol consumption on the body are just some of the ways to not only connect people, but also help improve health and change society’s views on alcohol and drinking.
Ethan Herx is a sophomore photojournalism student at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions expressed by columnists do not reflect those of the Post. Want to share your thoughts? Let Ethan know by emailing or tweeting him at [email protected] or @ethanherx.
