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College-age young adults face many big changes that can be overwhelming as they transition from childhood into adult life. Addiction and mental health resources for college students are essential for college students, as this period often marks a time of significant transition, stress, and pressure. Balancing academic demands, social expectations, and newfound independence can lead to heightened risks of anxiety, depression, and substance misuse. Access to tailored resources, such as counseling services, support groups, and educational programs, empowers students to navigate challenges while building resilience. Early intervention can prevent issues from escalating and promote healthier coping mechanisms.
By prioritizing mental health and addiction support on campuses, colleges create a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally, fostering long-term well-being and success. At Footprints to Recovery, we aim to ensure all people know that help is available. Whether for yourself or someone you love, check out our resources for college students below.
College Students and Substance Abuse
College students tend to be in the 18-22 age range, though those pursuing graduate degrees may remain in school into their mid-20s. During this period, individuals face many new and challenging situations as they become adults. For many, the pressures of more challenging academics, managing their newfound freedom, and the constant prevalence of social situations can feel overwhelming. Unfortunately, as responsibilities and obligations increase, so do issues like stress, anxiety, and depression. When faced with the pressures of their new independence and young adulthood, some turn to drugs and alcohol for a sense of relief. Self-medicating is when a person uses drugs or alcohol to numb their negative feelings, including symptoms of mental illness. College students may engage in this behavior to artificially relieve symptoms of mental health issues. Over time, this can lead to substance abuse and addiction.
Unfortunately, substance use often reaches its peak during young adulthood as individuals experiment with drugs and alcohol for the first time. College student addiction statistics show that young people engage in a variety of substance use, including:
- Marijuana
- Stimulants
- Opioids
- Painkillers
In one study, almost half of students had a substance use disorder (SUD) at some point between their freshman and senior years of college, with alcohol abuse being the most common. Binge drinking is a serious form of college student alcohol abuse. 39 percent of those who drink report having five or more drinks at a time. Clearly, there is a strong tie between young adults and substance abuse. Some of this is due to the “normalcy” of college-age partying and drug use. Yet, the idea that young adults should let loose with substances is a dangerous one.
Addiction Resources for College Students
College students must realize they aren’t alone in their substance abuse struggles. The pressure to drink and try recreational or stimulating drugs is widespread on university campuses. Many students feel isolated in their new “adulthood.” They may feel the pressure to be independent now that they’re in college, but many incredible resources exist.
Check out these student resources for support with drug and alcohol abuse:
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College Students and Mental Health
College student mental health matters, especially considering the number of individuals who struggle once they begin school. To elaborate, approximately 77 percent of college students experience moderate to severe psychological distress.
High school and college-age young adults are expected to make major life decisions that will have long-lasting results. For instance, they must choose a university, pursue a future career, and contemplate moving to a new city. Entering college presents big changes, regardless of whether they leave home to live on campus or not.
As they gain their independence for the first real time, many young people feel anxious and overburdened. Additionally, roughly 54 percent experience loneliness. Having a supportive group of people they care about makes a big difference in how young adults respond to these feelings. Yet, although there are many risk factors in the development of poor mental health, there’s no surefire way to prevent mental illness.
Some of the mental issues college students face include:
- Anxiety disorder
- Depressive disorders
- Eating disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Further, mental illness can lead to substance abuse as individuals try to self-medicate their symptoms.
Mental Health Resources for College Students
Mental health resources for college students are valuable assets for anyone who struggles with symptoms of poor mental health. Many college-age students are hesitant to seek help because they think their issues aren’t different than what others are facing. Yes, it’s true that most college students experience stress and overwhelm, but if your symptoms are interfering with your daily life, it’s time to get help. There’s no “perfect level” of struggle that qualifies someone to receive help. Don’t hesitate to explore these resources if you think you might have a mental health issue.
Here are some mental health resources for college students:
Where Else Can College Students Go for Help with Addiction and Mental Health?
Free student resources like these are valuable, but they can only go so far. Any college student who is struggling with substance abuse or mental illness will receive the best support from a professional. Talking to someone is an important step in receiving true care that can spark change. If you or someone you know is stuck in a bad place of mental illness and/or drug use, please reach out to someone. At Footprints to Recovery, we are here to talk about whatever you’re going for. Further, we can direct you to additional resources that will support you through your challenges.
We can also give you more information on receiving treatment at a professional treatment center. When you’re a young adult, you are just starting your life. Although this can feel stressful, it’s also a pivotal place from which to grow. No matter what you’re going through, we can help you feel strong and resilient in this stage of life with our support. So, please reach out today.
Our admissions team is available 24/7 to listen to your story and help you get started with the next steps.
