BASICS
Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students
BASICS helps you explore your alcohol and drug use in a non-judgmental environment. The program’s goal is to reduce risky behavior and the harmful consequences of alcohol abuse.
BASICS FAQs
- Who is BASICS for?
- What happens in BASICS?
- How do I make an appointment?
- Is there a cost?
- Who will know that I've used BASICS?
- Where is BASICS located?
- Where did BASICS come from?
Who is BASICS for?
Any student who uses alcohol or other drugs, especially if you’re concerned about your use or wonder how it compares to other students.
BASICS is a “drinker’s checkup” that helps you examine your use, identify changes that could work for you and reduce your risk of future problems. It’s not therapy or substance abuse assessment.
Students are required to attend BASICS after a first, low-level violation of UMass Amherst’s alcohol and drug policy. Second offenders are referred to BASICS 2, which continues the assessments and conversations.
Your healthcare provider may ask you questions about your drinking, using a tool called the AUDIT-C. If you score positive for high-risk drinking, you may be referred to BASICS. Also, you can choose to take part in BASICS on your own.
What happens in BASICS?
BASICS involves two 50-minute sessions. During the first, you'll complete an online questionnaire and meet with a prevention specialist. At the second session, you and your prevention specialist will discuss your questionnaire, compare your results to other UMass Amherst students and explore ways to reduce your risks.
How do I make an appointment?
If you’re judicially sanctioned, you’ll be given instructions on scheduling an appointment during your conference with Residence Life staff. If you were referred to BASICS, or want to take part on your own, call (413) 577-5071, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Is there a cost?
That depends on why you’re using BASICS. If you’re coming in on your own, or are referred by a medical or mental health provider, the program is free. Judicially sanctioned students and court-mandated students requiring a certificate of completion are assessed a $100 fee for a first offense; $175 for a second offense. BASICS accepts cash, UCard, check and credit card.
Who will know that I've used BASICS?
Your work online and with the prevention specialists is confidential.
Where is BASICS located?
BASICS is part of the Center for Alcohol and other Drug Abuse Prevention, in the Health Education department on the 3rd floor of UHS.
Where did BASICS come from?
UMass Amherst’s BASICS program is based on research conducted at the University of Washington and was launched using a three-year grant through the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The program's research component is assessing its effectiveness and sustainability here.
