Substance abuse is a growing concern among college students. According to The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 1 in 5 college students have reported using illicit drugs in the past month. With easy access to drugs and alcohol, combined with the pressure to fit in with peers, many college students find themselves struggling with substance abuse.
In the informative guide, Addiction Recovery During Higher Education the Intelligent.com Higher Education Team explores which substances pose the greatest risks to young adults and summarizes flexible treatment options to students; including out-patient therapy provided by practices such as Grove Counseling Services.
The most commonly abused drugs among college students include alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, and prescription drugs. Alcohol is the most widely abused substance among college students, with a reported 59% of college students drinking in the past month. Marijuana is the second most commonly abused drug, with 37% of college students reporting marijuana use in the past month. Cocaine and prescription drugs are also widely abused, with 4% and 7% of college students reporting cocaine and prescription drug use in the past month, respectively.
Substance abuse can have serious implications for college students. Substance abuse can lead to poor academic performance, increased risk of mental health problems, and increased risk of physical health problems. Substance abuse can also lead to legal trouble, as many drugs are illegal.
College students who struggle with substance abuse can also be at risk of social isolation and financial difficulties.
There are steps college students can take to prevent substance abuse. These include avoiding situations in which drugs and alcohol are present, setting limits on drinking and drug use, and seeking help if substance abuse becomes a problem. College students can also reach out to their school for help. Many colleges offer resources for students struggling with substance abuse, such as counseling, support and recovery groups, and education about the risks of substance abuse.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are master's-degreed mental health service providers, trained to work with individuals, families, and groups in treating underlying and co-occurring mental, behavioral, and emotional problems and disorders. Choosing a therapist is a very personal matter. There is no one therapist that is good for everyone. Take your time to ask questions and ensure you feel a sense of trust and that the therapist you choose can help you succeed.
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