Alcohol is often involved in date rapes. Drinking can loosen inhibitions, dull common sense, and – for some people – allow aggressive tendencies to surface.

Drugs can also be involved. “Date rape drugs” like rohypnol (roofies), gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), and ketamine can easily be mixed in drinks to make a person black out and forget things that happen. Both girls and guys who have been given these drugs report feeling paralyzed, having blurred vision, and lack of memory. If these drugs are mixed with alcohol it is highly dangerous and can kill.

Always get your own drinks or watch while they are being poured, even if you just order a soda. If you’re at a party and there are cans or bottles of soda, ask to have one that hasn’t been opened. Drugs can be slipped into any kind of drink without a person knowing it. And don’t leave your drink where you can’t keep an eye on it.