Unfortunately, drug use among college students is all too common and can result in physical, mental, social, and academic problems. Substance use in college students is usually experimental but can quickly turn into an addiction that requires substance abuse treatment. College students adapt to a new lifestyle rather quickly, in both social and academic directions. A college student may find it difficult to remain completely sober because many social gatherings have alcohol flowing freely around them. Other students may use amphetamines or prescription drugs like Adderall for a performance-enhancing edge in their studies. Stress from school work and social commitments make a perfect storm for alcohol and drug abuse in college students.
If you’re struggling with addiction, Bayview Recovery is here for you every step of the way. Call us at 855.478.3650 or visit us online for any questions or concerns about substance abuse and substance abuse treatment.
Drugs and College Students
College students are unique in which drugs they abuse compared to the general population. Among college students, the most popular drugs include:
- Ecstasy, LSD, Psilocybin Mushrooms, and other psychedelic or hallucinogenic drugs are popular among college students. Many students use these drugs to experiment, escape, or have an overall psychedelic experience. Micro-dosing has gained popularity in recent years. Micro-dosing is the act of taking small doses of a hallucinogen to achieve a slight effect.
- Marijuana is a substance that students commonly smoke or vape, and most users typically will use it several times throughout the day. Marijuana use is most prevalent in students in their early 20s.
- Students use stimulant medications such as Adderall to study but are highly addictive. These medications can produce a heightened focus and make a student stay awake longer to study for exams.
- Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that many college students may use. Cocaine can increase heart rate and blood pressure even in young and healthy individuals. When someone uses cocaine and alcohol together, it can increase the chances of overdose. Cocaine use can also cause strokes and seizures.
In addition to the drugs we’ve listed above, alcohol can prove to be the most harmful. Students can be hospitalized from alcohol poisoning or get into serious car accidents from driving under the influence. Alcohol is widely accessible and available. College students are more likely to abuse alcohol than any other substance listed above combined. First-year college students are at high risk for abusing alcohol due to the widespread availability and perception that it’s not harmful. Binge drinking can develop into a serious alcohol abuse disorder that would require substance abuse treatment to recover safely.
Substance Abuse in College Students
Because of the unique conditions that college students face, there are many reasons why substance abuse would be an issue on campus. Reasons substance abuse can appear in college students include:
- Stress: Balancing a social and academic life can be stressful. The demands of college often push students towards alcohol or drugs to relieve or manage stress.
- Peer pressure: Being surrounded by others who are using alcohol or drugs may make it appear that using is okay.
- Experimentation: College has considerably fewer rules and structures than students dealt with at home. Oftentimes, this new freedom can cause students to partake in drug or alcohol use.
- Social anxiety: Using drugs or alcohol can temporarily ease social anxiety but can quickly turn into an addiction
Though it may seem intimidating, getting help in battling your addiction can provide the true freedom you need to succeed in school and life.
Seek Treatment at Bayview Recovery
If you believe that you or a student you care about is abusing alcohol or drugs, professional addiction treatment is always the best option. When a student receives a comprehensive approach to care, it can promote sobriety, uncover triggers, and establish relapse prevention. Based on the dependence, type of drug, the amount used, and specific needs of the individual, recovery can take place in an outpatient or inpatient setting. While college drug use is common, alcohol and drug abuse can cause considerable damage to the young.
At Washington-based Bayview Recovery, we can help you find the treatment you need to lead a sober life and succeed in life and college. If you don’t know where to turn, reach out to us today at 855.478.3650 to take the first steps towards recovery.