Life moves fast – and in college, an accelerated time frame means things can change in the blink of an eye. It’s the final period before starting a “grown up” career, where adolescence is fading away and an occupational future is just around the corner. It’s also one that offers one more chance to just let loose, before the real responsibilities set in. However, a casual drink here or there at a party or the local bar scene could quickly spiral into a full-blown addiction.
For those college students actively in recovery or seeking to lead a lifestyle free of substance misuse, support may be available right on campus. The Association of Recovery in Higher Education is a nonprofit organization that works with over 180 higher education institutions to exclusively represent collegiate recovery programs (CRPs) and collegiate recovery communities (CRCs). Schools range from community colleges to widespread universities across the U.S., Canada and even, the United Kingdom.
Locally in the Twin Cities area, Augsburg College, Metro State University, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, St. Cloud State University, and the University of Minnesota each have their own collegiate recovery programs. ARHE, as the organization is widely known, provides the education, resources, and community connection needed to help change the trajectory of recovering students’ lives. Peer-based settings include substance-free social events, education and more.
As students work to redefine who they are following a substance use disorder, they must make their recovery a long-term focus. And as they encounter challenges along the way, they’ll find that their recovery may not always be supported by society, particularly in the higher education environment. College students must work to navigate peer-pressure and abundant temptations while remaining focused on their commitment to education. Their needs differ from the common narrative generally found on college campuses; therefore, support is often lacking in those schools without a CRP.
ARHE works with colleges to provide the tools and education needed to create a collegiate culture that embraces recovery. A dedicated space, dedicated staff, programming supporting recovery and peer support are just some of the ways each program is unique. As one of ARHE’s very first members, Augsburg University in Minneapolis offers its StepUP program, partnering locally with The Center for Wellness and Counseling to provide on campus mental health support for students.
Recent studies have shown that schools that implement CRPs reduce the recovery and relapse cycle by 15 years while producing educated citizens. Students enrolled in a program collectively have a higher average GPA than the general student body. And these thriving students likely create fewer problems for the institution, lowering resulting costs. It also benefits in the notion that when students are engaged, they become engaged alumni, advocating for the continued success of their alma mater.
Schools that implement CRPs reduce the recovery and relapse cycle by 15 years while producing educated citizens.Through its work with over 275 institutions since being founded in 2010, ARHE has helped support thousands of students in their recovery journeys. Each spring, the organization holds an annual Collegiate Recovery Week, dedicated to celebrating its students. Campuses may participate in collective initiatives or hold their own individual events. This past year, Augsburg University opened up its events to all students within, hosting an event each day of the week. This ranged from a “sober curious” discussion, recovery ally training and the opportunity to visit recovery high schools in the area.
Meanwhile, Minneapolis Community & Technical College is the fifth ARHE program ever recognized at a two-year institution. The program is operated by a licensed alcohol and drug counselor while partnering with the school’s Addiction Counseling academic program, Student Affairs & Student Life and the Addiction Counseling Club. Outwardly, it receives support from valuable partnerships like the University of Minnesota’s Boynton Health Clinic.
Earlier this year, ARHE developed an accrediting program for CRPs known as the ARHE Standardized Review for Collegiate Recovery Advancement (SRCRA)©. The voluntary, evaluative process assists CRPs in defining their current programs while outlining plans for moving forward. It is meant to act as a tool to help navigate the often-challenging advocacy paths of the field within institutions of higher education. The accreditation ensures the use of best practices along with the quality and integrity of its program and services.
And it doesn’t stop there: ARHE also recognizes those schools that go above and beyond during the annual Collegiate Recovery Awards. This extends to individual recognitions of students, staff and community members as well who continue to advance the topic of college recovery. Each person involved in collegiate recovery programs, whether as a current student, alum, faculty member or beyond, is vital to continuing ARHE’s mission of creating a supportive environment within the campus culture.
ARHE exists solely through funding including grants, research as well as state government, donations and more. And with continued contributions, it can continue to reach even more higher education institutions. Donations are tax-deductible and can be made online. Other additional ways to donate are available including purchasing branded merchandise or a copy of The Little Book of College Sobriety. To learn more, visit www.collegiaterecovery.org.
Kristen Skladd.
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