Drug abuse has been a long-term problem in college campuses. Due to the stress of academic workload, peer pressure, or plain curiosity, many college students are led to abuse various drugs. While some have a good excuse, substance use among college students can easily lead to a bigger problem if not addressed right away.
In this post, we’ll discuss more about substance abuse in college students and what kind of drugs they typically get involved in. Keep reading to know more about this growing problem.
Drugs in university: 5 commonly abused substances among students
Substance abuse among college students is on the rise. Here are the drugs and substances that are front and center on this issue:
1. Alcohol
Alcohol abuse is nothing new to college students. From frat parties, spring break parties, and just casual night outs with friends, alcohol is the most convenient substance for students to acquire. This makes drug and alcohol abuse on college campuses rampant.
Based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, about 53% of full-time college students drink alcohol each month. Worse, data also shows that about 1,500+ college students between the ages of 18 and 24 have died due to alcohol-related injuries.
2. Marijuana
According to the American Addiction Centers, about 43% of college students used marijuana in 2018 alone. It also saw a 7% increase in the past years.
While marijuana isn’t a drug a itself, its psychoactive effects make college students chase the ‘high’ it can bring. It’s also legal for recreational use in some states, making access very convenient for many college students.
3. Adderall
What is the number one drug used by teens in college? If you ask a student to name drugs in colleges, they will surely have Adderall on the list.
Adderall is a prescription drug used to treat conditions like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. However, college students tend to abuse this drug for its focus-inducing effect, which greatly helps them study for exams and other academic-related activities.
Students say that Adderall helps them complete projects quickly and efficiently. However, abusing this drug can lead to addiction, with some students ending up in a drug rehab center in Los Angeles.
4. Cocaine
Cocaine is an illegal drug that’s often a big part of the discussion about college students and substance abuse. This powdery white drug is often snorted for the euphoric high it can bring.
College students also take cocaine illicitly for a temporary escape and to cope with the stress and pressure of their studies. Some would take cocaine to stay awake longer during college parties.
Unfortunately, just like any illegal drug, cocaine will bring a slew of health conditions. Aside from addiction, it can also cause lung issues, heart problems, and mental health disorders.
5. Ecstasy
Ecstasy is a synthetic drug that can greatly alter a person’s mood and perception. Scientifically, this drug is called MDMA or 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine, which distorts the sense of time and perception of a person.
For college students, ecstasy offers a boost in energy and alertness, which is something they use, especially during exam seasons. Worse, college students would mix it with other drugs to enhance its effects.
Unfortunately, the use and abuse of ecstasy can lead to problems such as hallucinations, seizures, panic attacks, and even health failure.
Are you a student struggling with drug abuse?
College is a high-pressure environment for many, which can easily cause students to resort to drug and substance abuse.
If you’re someone struggling with this problem, help is always available. Recovery is always possible through the following avenues:
Peer support. Many colleges and universities have support organizations for students dealing with drug abuse. It’s a good place to start if you’re looking for motivation to quit substance use.
Counseling. If you need professional help, you can always try therapy and counseling. This will help you overcome the emotional and mental toll of drug or substance abuse you’re dealing with.
Inpatient rehab. If you think that your drug abuse is already affecting your studies and compromising your health seriously, it might be time to explore rehab. An inpatient rehab center LA will help you achieve recovery in a comfortable and home-like environment.
Outpatient rehab. After finishing an inpatient program, you can transition to an outpatient facility for further support. Here, you’ll get professional help to maintain your sobriety, all while attending your classes.
Conclusion
College can be a challenging phase, but it’s also a point in life that every student deserves to enjoy. Instead of letting drug or substance abuse get in the way, you can seek professional help right away. This way, you can earn your hard-earned degree without the health threats of addiction.
Above all, getting help with substance abuse will prepare you for the life ahead outside of campus.