FAQ
- Who can participate with BASICS? BASICS is a free program available for current UTEP students who want to assess their drinking or marijuana use and learn about moderate substance use.
- Do I need to have a drinking or substance use problem to participate in BASICS? No, you do not need to have a substance use problem. Everyone can participate and schedule an appointment with BASICS to assess their drinking patterns.
- How does BASICS work? BASICS is a two session program. During the first session, students receive alcohol or marijuana education and are asked to track their use patterns for two weeks.Between Session 1 and Session 2, students are asked to take an online assessment that help us gather additional information about the student's substance use patterns. During Session 2, we discuss the student's use behaviors with the information gathered between Session 1 and 2, and discuss strategies to reduce their substance use, if appropriate.
- What is the Feedback Survey? The feedback survey is a series of questions that explore the student's pattern of substance use, family history of alcohol or other drug use, weight and gender, and a few other questions that help us provide personalized feedback for each student that attends our program.
- Can I go with friends or do I have to go by myself? During Session 1, a group of students meet together to receive the psychoeducational component on substance use. Students can choose to come alone or to come with friends to learn all together about this topic. In Session 2, students meet one on one with the BASICS facilitator. Meeting one on one allows each student to receive personalized feedback in a private environment without worrying about others knowing of their personal history or situation.
- Is BASICS confidential? BASICS will not share information with anyone without a written consent. However, BASICS staff is required by law to disclose information in the following cases:
- To report disclosed information if serious or foreseeable harm to you or others is evident.
- Release of confidential information is required by court or requested by you.
- When child abuse or neglect is suspected or evident.
- When abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults who are vulnerable due to physical or mental impairment is suspected or evident.
- How do I sign up? Email us at basics@utep.edu, and provide your name and your UTEP ID number. We will respond back with the times available to schedule an appointment.
- Can I get extra credit for my classes if I attend BASICS? You can discuss this option with your professors; many professors encourage students to get involved with BASICS.
- How can I request a BASICS presentation for a class? BASICS offers one-hour presentations on alcohol or marijuana use to educate UTEP students on this topic from a non-judgmental perspective. If you are interested in a presentation, e-mail us at basics@utep.edu and tell us the time of your class and the number of students that may attend the presentation.