Editor’s Note: All opinion section content reflects the views of the individual author only and does not represent a stance taken by the Collegian or its editorial board.

It’s that time of the year. Students across the country are packing their bags and heading off to spring break destinations. After a long week of midterms, spring break is seen as a much needed retreat. Students should make the most of their spring breaks, but remain mindful of their actions while on vacation.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of spring break, but don’t get swept into risky behavior. Spring break brings about troubling trends in crime, binge drinking, drug use, and an increase in sexual assaults. This trends are especially prevalent in big Spring Break destinations in Florida, Texas, and Mexico.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of spring break, but don’t get swept into risky behavior. Spring break brings about troubling trends in crime, binge drinking, drug use, and an increase in sexual assaults.

According to a Department of Justice study, the months leading into summer tend to see an increase in aggravated assaults and sexual assaults. College students are at the highest risk of being sexually assaulted.

In 2015, the sexual assault of an unconscious woman was recorded during Spring Break in Panama Beach, Florida and made national news. One of the most disturbing pieces of the story and video are the fact that hundreds of people stood around, some even recording the incident. Not one person intervened. This is sickening. If you feel you can’t intervene in a situation, report it. Keep local authorities contact information with you.

Also be wary of what you post on social media. According to many in-depth studies done by ProjectKnow, hundreds of thousands post on social media during spring break that include photos of drinks and drugs. It’s okay to show everyone you are having a good time, but just remember what you post will affect you long after your vacation. Photos of you belligerent on the beach may not be something you want future employers to see.

Deaths over spring break are far too common. CSU dealt with the death of a student over spring break just last year.

“It can be really difficult to come back from spring break and learn that the community lost a student or that someone our age died” said pre-med senior Bethany Norwood. “I use spring break as a time for rejuvenation, I think that relaxation has more positive health effects on student’s abilities and perform better when they get back”.  

“I use spring break as a time for rejuvenation, I think that relaxation has more positive health effects on student’s abilities and perform better when they get back”.  -Bethany Norwood, senior CSU

If you are drinking and partaking in spring break festivities, watch out for your friends and your surroundings. More importantly, speak up and watch out for other people. Whether they are Rams, part of this community, or complete strangers, if you see something wrong happening do something.  

Come back to school feeling refreshed and recharged. Spring break should be a time to check yourself and your mental health and spend time doing things you enjoy. Whether you are staying in Fort Collins and relaxing or partying in a hot spot spring break destination: be mindful. Do not add to these statistics Rams. The pursuit of a good time is not worth your life.

Jayla Hodge can be reached at letters@collegian.com or online at @Jaylahodge.