Party culture in student life
Swedish universities and other institutes of higher education offer a rich student life where you can get involved in associations and various events. There is usually a large range of festivities and fun events where you can socialise and meet new friends. Student life is most fun when you have a balance between partying and taking care of yourself.
Alcohol is a common feature of student parties. It can be nice at a party, but can also lead to negative consequences for your well-being and health, your study results and your finances. In the middle of all the fun, it’s therefore important that you keep track of your alcohol consumption and create a healthy balance between partying and studying.
Alcohol and drugs
The use of alcohol, cannabis or other drugs in social contexts can, for some, reduce stress, anxiety and insecurity. However, it usually doesn’t help in the long term and can, in the worst case, lead to high-risk levels of consumption and dependence. If you feel a need to be intoxicated to feel comfortable in social situations, it may be a good idea to try to find other ways to overcome your difficulties. Help is available! Remember that in Sweden it is illegal to use or possess drugs. This also applies to cannabis.
Peer-group pressure
Do you sometimes do things because others nag or urge you to do them, even though you don’t really want to? That’s an example of negative group pressure. At a party, you may be urged to, for example, drink alcohol or take drugs. Then, it’s important that you dare to speak up, both if you feel group pressure you are not comfortable with or if you notice that someone else is suffering. It can be difficult and challenging to be the one who chooses to opt out or to speak out, but remind yourself that You should have fun on Your own terms.
Party smart - take care of yourself and others
By partying smart, you can have fun, feel more secure and contribute to a safer environment for everyone.
Some tips on partying smart:
- Take care of yourself and others – whether you choose to drink alcohol or be sober. Show respect!
- Plan ahead and decide how much you want to drink or if you want to abstain completely. Having a plan can help you avoid excessive consumption and possible negative consequences.
- Have the courage to speak up if you or others are subjected to abuse or are being treated unjustly.
- Remember that you can have at least as much fun without being under the influence of alcohol!
Guidance and support
If you have concerns about your own or someone else’s partying and consumption of alcohol or other drugs, you can contact the student health service. It is usually a good first step to help you deal with any challenges or provide you with information on where additional support can be obtained. It can also feel good to talk to a friend or someone else you trust.