Harm prevention methods focus on being aware of situations that might have a negative impact on an individual or group. You can learn to recognize risky behaviors before they happen to reduce the chance of physical and emotional harm. Education methods can be used to increase knowledge about the negative effects of alcohol use. Binge drinking can lead to risky behaviors which can lead to illegal actions. Learning methods to help prevent harm can help individuals be more involved in making healthy decisions. Harm preventions strategies can also help student-athletes be more aware of what other people around them are doing. 

(Cimini, 2015; Johnson, Chapter 9, 2019; Leone et al., 2018; McCray et al., 2018)

Many sports operate in a team atmosphere where individuals work together toward a common goal. When teammates have healthy goals outside of sport, they can live a lifestyle more suitable to being successful in their athletic career. Programs like Brief Alcohol Screen and Intervention in College Students (BASICS) can educate individuals about their current behaviors and allow them to better monitor their actions. Bystander training can be done as a group and trains people how to act when they notice someone who might be engaging in unsafe practices or being put in a bad situation. 

(Cimini, 2015; Johnson, Chapter 9, 2019; Leone et al., 2018; McCray et al., 2018)

At UWL, student-athletes will participate in a pre-season mental health screening. Each individual will meet with a campus counselor and will be provided information about campus resources and have the space to talk about any personal challenges. 

If you think you might need some help with your drinking behaviors, check out UWL BASICS program. You will be able to learn methods to help you make choices that will benefit your academic and athletic careers. 

BASICS - Wellness and Health Advocacy | UW-La Crosse (uwlax.edu) 

Your team can also set up a time to learn about Bystander Training. Learn ways to be more aware of situations that could put you or your teammates at risk. 

Wellness programming - Wellness and Health Advocacy | UW-La Crosse (uwlax.edu)