College Freshmen Substance Abuse
The Risks of Substance Abuse and Alcohol Addiction in College Freshmen
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the most commonly abused substances on college campuses are alcohol and prescription drugs. Alcohol addiction in college students is a growing problem. One in four students report having problems with their drinking, and 1 in 10 meet the criteria for having an alcohol addiction disorder. Additionally, substance use in college students is also on the rise. A recent study found that 1 in 5 college students had used an illicit drug in the past year. The most popular drugs among college students are marijuana, cocaine, and Adderall. With the high demands of school and social life, many young adults turn to substances as a way to cope. However, this can lead to alcohol addiction, substance use disorders, and other serious consequences
College freshmen in particular are at high risk of abusing substances during their first year away from home, not only because they’re struggling with social adjustment but also because they’re surrounded by others who are doing it as well. As such, it’s important that young adults have access to information about substance abuse before they leave home and can use it when they arrive at college to help minimize the risks of developing an addiction or poisoning themselves through drug abuse.
What Are the Different Risks Associated with Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse and alcohol addiction can lead to a number of different risks for college freshmen. Poor academic performance is one such risk. Drinking and doing drugs can make it difficult to concentrate on studies and do well in classes. Additionally, substance abuse can lead to serious health risks. Alcohol poisoning, for example, is a very real danger for those who drink too much. Drinking can also increase the risk of sexual assault; many sexual assaults on college campuses involve alcohol. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, there are resources available to help. Stephen Gilman, MD addiction psychiatrist in NYC can provide addiction treatment and help individuals get on the path to recovery.
Is There Anything College Students Can Do About It?
There are a number of things that college freshmen can do to minimize their risk of alcohol addiction and other substance abuse disorders. One is to seek out substance abuse resources at their college. These resources can provide information about the risks of substance abuse and how to avoid them. Additionally, college freshmen should be aware of the signs of substance abuse and know how to get help if they or someone they know is struggling with addiction. Another thing that college freshmen can do is educate themselves about alcohol and other drugs. They can learn about the risks and consequences associated with alcohol and drug use as well as treatment options for people who want to stop using substances.
Finally, college freshmen should know what steps to take if they suspect someone else might be abusing substances like alcohol or drugs. If you see someone acting oddly and making poor decisions such as spending more time than usual partying or not going to class regularly, it may be time to talk to them about substance abuse. For example, you may suspect your roommate has an alcohol problem. If so, try talking to him or her about it by saying something like “You seem really unhappy lately- I was wondering if there’s anything I could do.” If the person says yes then suggest getting help from an addiction psychiatrist in NYC or talking to a counselor in the student health center.
Begin Working with A Psychiatrist For Young Adults in New York, NY
You and those around you deserve to enjoy the college experience without the debilitating effects of substance abuse. I understand the pressures you may experience, and I would be honored to offer support from my NYC, Manhattan-based therapy practice. I offer support both in person and online. To start your therapy journey, please follow these simple steps:
- Contact Stephen Gilman, MD
- Learn more about me and my approach to substance abuse treatment
- Start managing addiction and substance abuse in a healthy way
Other Services Offered with Stephen Gilman, MD – Addiction Psychiatrist in NYC, Manhattan
Young adults psychiatry isn’t the only service I offer. I understand addiction can cover a wide range of topics. This is why I’m happy to also offer mental health support in a variety of other services. Other services offered include opioid addiction treatment, general psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and meth addiction treatment. I’m also happy to offer prescription drug addiction treatment and cocaine addiction. In addition, I also offer behavioral addiction treatment, PTSD treatment, drug addiction treatment, and marijuana addiction treatment. Learn more about me or visit my blog for more helpful info.
