#740 After Dark: When In Rome

College Life

Navigating college life with type 1 diabetes presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to social activities involving alcohol. Erin shares her approach to drinking, emphasizing the importance of planning and avoiding sugary drinks to manage her blood sugar levels. She explains, "I mostly just drink, like, seltzers, like white claws or whatever, which have, like, 2 grams of carbs" 1. Her experiences highlight the anxiety and unpredictability of managing diabetes in social settings, particularly when using multiple daily injections (MDI) before transitioning to a pump 1. Scott Benner and Erin also discuss the broader college drinking culture, noting the differences between social and excessive drinking 2.

   

Substance Use

Erin's experiences with substances extend beyond alcohol, as she occasionally uses cannabis, though with caution due to its impact on her anxiety. She notes, "Weed is such a strong substance where the minute you put an anxious thought in your head, you're anxious" 3. This awareness of her mental state reflects her broader approach to managing anxiety, which she has been addressing with therapy for two years 4. Scott Benner and Erin discuss the prevalence of anxiety among college students, with Erin estimating that 90% of her peers experience it, often exacerbated by academic and social pressures 4.

   

Drug Risks

The conversation also touches on the broader landscape of drug use in college, including the risks associated with substances like cocaine and fentanyl. Erin expresses her caution, particularly with drugs like mushrooms, due to the unknown effects on her diabetes 5. Scott Benner5. Additionally, the discussion includes a light-hearted exchange about vocabulary, illustrating the casual and open nature of their conversation 6.