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Supporting College Students in Recovery

The Department of Education has monitored drug use among college students and found that nearly half of college students have a substance abuse disorder. Among college-aged students were the highest rates of illegal drug use, especially amphetamines and hallucinogens. 

Thankfully, you can find drug recovery for college students specifically centered on treatment involving college-aged students, focused on the issues and causes of SUDs in those same clients.

Causes of SUD in College Students

A survey about substance use and alcoholism among college students revealed that there were several reasons why college students are more susceptible to substance abuse disorders:

  • College students are forced into a new lifestyle with less structure
  • Many people exchange drugs and classrooms and dorm rooms as an easy way to escape from the burden of academic stress
  • Alcohol is freely available as many students are of legal age to purchase 
  • College students experience high levels of stress related to family issues, social life, and academic performance
  • Substance abuse is often a way to reduce social anxiety or tension in the many social situations in which college students find themselves
  • Family histories of substance abuse can increase the risk
  • College students generally believe that substance abuse is acceptable and a normal part of the college experience
  • Studies indicate that fraternity and sorority members have higher rates of substance abuse and binge drinking
  • College is usually a transitional time frame, which, for many, is the first time they don't have adult supervision 

What Substances are Most Common?

That said, regardless of experience with drugs and alcohol prior to college, there are a few substances for which most college students in recovery receive treatments, including the following: 

  • Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances, particularly when it comes to binge drinking
  • Hallucinogenic drugs have gained popularity but are used primarily out of curiosity, and small doses
  • Stimulants, particularly Adderall, are used regularly as a study drug to help with academic performance
  • Painkillers and opioids are also prescribed for college-aged students

Why Choose Addiction Treatment for College Students?

When you choose addiction treatment for college students, the programs are designed specifically for those in college.

This comes with several benefits.

Firstly, you get the benefit of flexible schedules that take into account academic needs.

Secondly, you get the benefit of qualified staff who are there to focus on the issues of things like peer pressure, transition into adulthood, and the stress of academic performance that is commonly associated with college students but not necessarily found in things like single mothers with addictions to painkillers or 50-year-old men with alcoholism.

Thirdly, you get to receive treatment with other college students who understand what you're going through, can share, can provide support, and can build the foundation for a supportive sober network once you leave treatment. 

What to Expect

When you participate in a residential program, you can expect to extricate yourself from your current environment. This means you step away from the academic stress, the peer pressure, and the sense of normalcy revolving around substance abuse and binge drinking.

You get to reside full-time at the treatment facility and receive a regular schedule of evidence-based behavioral therapy and holistic care designed to fit your needs. Meals are provided for you, and all of the on-site facilities are made available to you.

Addiction Treatment for College Students with The Berman Center

At our mental health treatment Georgia, we offer drug recovery for college students. Clients get to work in group therapy sessions exclusively filled with other college students going through similar struggles. 

Overall, finding group-specific treatment can contribute to higher success rates, especially when it comes to drug recovery for college students. College student-specific programs let you work with professionals who understand some of the struggles that might be associated with things like peer pressure and academic performance, as well as group settings that are full of clients going through similar struggles. Learn about out Atlanta mental health treatment center.