The Student Health Service is the home of the AI:MS program. AI:MS (Addiction Illness : Medical Solutions) is a safe place for students to raise concerns about compulsive behavior and/or addiction with elected peer representatives and/or a trained substance abuse professional.

AI:MS hears a variety of student concerns, including issues related to problem drinking or drug use; disordered eating behavior; gambling; excessive internet use; excessive spending; or difficulties with/concerns about classmates, friends, or family members arising from any of the aforementioned.

AI:MS utilizes a listening model and does not diagnose or treat. Rather, AI:MS provides support, encouragement, options, and, when indicated, triage to professional therapy. AI:MS is a bridge to specialists who are trained in the treatment and care of many different forms of dependency. These therapists can help prevent abuse from growing into serious addiction. AI:MS can help a student find a professional evaluation and advice, off campus, if desired.

Confidentiality: When students say they do not know the names of those who have used AI:MS, that is because of the importance of confidentiality. As a part of the Student Health Service, all contacts with AI:MS are bound by strict HIPAA regulations. Therefore, all contact with AI:MS is confidential. Information gathered by AI:MS will not be shared with anyone, except in cases of imminent serious risk to individual safety. That instance is most rare.

How to reach AI:MS: Information about AI:MS can be accessed by calling the Student Health Service at 212-305-3400 or by logging on to the AI:MS website at http://www.columbia.edu/cu/aims.