American Medical Program Tel Aviv University Drug And Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program
American Medical Program Tel Aviv University has a drug and alcohol abuse prevention program that includes various measures and policies applicable to all employees and students. This program includes the following:
- Annual distribution of this information to all students and employees by appropriate means.
- A prohibition of the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on AMPTAU property or as part of its activities.
- Imposition of one or more of sanctions, from requiring completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program, up to and including suspension, expulsion, or termination of employment and referral for prosecution, for violations of the above prohibition.
- On a biennial basis, an evaluation is conducted as to the success of its drug and alcohol prevention program.
Health Risks:
Students and employees should be aware of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol.
As to alcohol, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence cite “alcohol-related problems or impairment in such areas as…liver disease, gastritis, anemia, neurological disorders…impairments in cognition, [and] changes in mood or behavior.” Alcohol consumption also presents serious health risks to pregnant women.
Additionally, alcohol abuse, including excessive or “binge” drinking, can seriously affect academic, athletic, and work performance while leading to behaviors that are destructive, violent, or asocial. In particular, recent studies have revealed a strong relationship between alcohol consumption and instances of wrongful or inappropriate sexual behaviors.
As to drug abuse, while adverse health effects may vary depending on the substance, most drugs can produce one or more of the following reactions: headache, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, damage to organs, addiction, and, in extreme cases, death. Interactions between drugs and alcohol can be especially extreme. Moreover, the use of drugs can result in asocial or violent behaviors and can have a severe negative effect on personal development, schoolwork, and job performance.
Counseling, Treatment and Rehabilitation:
Mindful of these risks, the State of Israel has established the Israel Anti-Drug Authority (IADA). The IADA makes available a number of counseling, treatment, education, and rehabilitation programs to assist those struggling with alcohol and/or drug abuse problems. A description of those programs, as well as contact information for the IADA, can be found at — http://www.antidrugs.org.il/english/default.aspx.
Students and employees should also be aware that the law of the State of Israel imposes potentially severe criminal sanctions for violations of the law governing alcohol and drugs. These include, for example, prison sentences of 3-25 years, depending on the specific offense. More information on these penalties can be found on the IADA website.