For many young people, college is more than just a time to further their education, so they are set up to be successful adults. It is also their first taste of true independence. Without the daily oversight of their parents, young adults are finally able to live their lives in the way they want. Not surprisingly, college drug abuse is a common pitfall.
Reasons For College Drug Abuse
In addition to getting their first serious taste of freedom, there are other reasons why students in college might use drugs and/or alcohol regularly. For some young adults, college exposes them to a wide variety of people that they might not otherwise meet as easily. College is an exciting time in a person’s life but can also be stressful. The rigors of classes and adjusting to a new environment can prompt young adults to turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope. Frequent parties offer college students the opportunity to meet new people. They also, however, pave the way for drug use. Fraternities and sororities provide college students with an instant network of friends. However, many of these organizations have a heavy focus on partying which can encourage heavy drug and alcohol use.
How Common Is It?
A report issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) detailed just how common college drug abuse is. The report noted that in 2014, there were about 12.4 million college students. Almost one-third of full-time college students between the ages of 18 and 22 engaged in binge drinking. During that same period, about one in five college students used an illicit substance.
Consequences Of College Drug Abuse
As the report mentioned above noted, college drug abuse is one of the most serious public health issues for young adults in the United States. There are a wealth of negative consequences that can result, including the following:
- Unsafe behavior
- Feelings of guilt and/or shame
- Spending excessive amounts of money on drugs and/or alcohol
- Nausea
- Financial woes
- Cravings
- Aggressive behavior
- Drug tolerances and addiction
- Strained family relationships
- Declining health
Signs Of College Drug Use
If you are the parent of a college student and you are concerned about college drug abuse, there are some signs you can watch out for. While many of these signs don’t necessarily indicate that your son or daughter is using drugs and/or alcohol, they do show the possibility is there. These can include the following:
- Failing grades
- Sleeping during the day
- Sudden changes in mood
- Unexplained financial troubles
- Lack of motivation
- Inability to get in touch with them
- Neglecting basic hygiene
- Skipping classes
How You Can Help
If you suspect your college student is using drugs and/or alcohol, the best approach is to act quickly. The longer the behavior is unchecked, the more harm it can do to your child’s health, finances, college career, and overall future. The Ranch PA provides a comprehensive range of treatment options for college drug abuse. Delivered by their team of compassionate professionals, the services available at The Ranch PA include the following:
- Family therapy
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Medical detox
- Motivational interviewing
- Psychodrama
- Pain management
- 12-step and non-12-step programs
- individual therapy
Located on a beautiful campus set on 15 acres in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, The Ranch PA treats a variety of drugs including alcohol, marijuana, opioids, cocaine, meth, and heroin. Contact us today at 717.969.9126 to learn more about how we can help your loved one get their life back on track.