The Encore Series took a different approach to drug awareness Monday night. Instead of preaching the evils of drugs and alcohol, Health Educator Megan Knapp provided students with information on how to help those whose drug use has gotten out of hand.

The program “Because I Care” was designed from the suggestions of students who wanted to know ways to intervene on behalf of a friend. It emphasizes the warning signs of severe drug abuse, eating disorders and depression, and how to confront a friend who is struggling.

“When it’s affecting a person’s academics, eating or sleeping is when there is an issue,” Knapp said.

According the Knapp, it is the students who hold the responsibility. Understanding how to care for yourself and others is the key to leading a healthy life. A list of resources available on campus and in the Dallas area is available online at smu.edu/alcoholeducation.

The Encore Series was brought back to campus by Student Activities Director Megan McGillivray in order to keep first-year students feeling connected with the SMU community.

“We want students to feel like they are given special attention after AARO and Corral are over,” McGillivray said.

The Encore Series holds multiple events every month focusing on a certain topic – February’s is Healthy Habits. Posters holding the schedule of events are displayed in all the dorms.