Effects of Addiction on Indiana University Students
Addiction in college students is a genuine concern. College is a time when many students experience their first taste of freedom. It’s an opportunity to make new friends and try new things. It can be a time of experimentation, but unfortunately, this kind of indulgent atmosphere can quickly become dangerous.
For some, the experience is the complete opposite. Students may feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Either of these scenarios can lead students to dabble in substance use.
Addiction In College Students In Indiana
Knowing this, Indiana University is concerned about college student addiction, and with good reason. According to research, approximately one in 12 residents of Indiana, or Hoosiers, meet the criteria for a substance abuse disorder. Since 2017, drug overdoses in Indiana have doubled, rising from 923 to 1,809. As if this weren’t alarming enough, data also reveals that the drug-induced mortality rate in Indiana quadrupled between 2000 and 2014.
Clearly, there is a problem, but it’s not exclusive to Indiana. The entire nation is suffering under the burden of substance abuse, addiction, and drug-related mortality. An opioid crisis is sweeping the country. In Indiana, deaths related to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl increased by over 600%. Even more astonishing is the fact that this increase occurred over four years, between 2012 and 2016.
What To Do When You Are Dealing With A College Student With Drug Addiction
Even Hoosiers who are looking to break away from substance use and abuse face barriers. Substance abuse disorders breed shame and stigma. Unfortunately, many consider addiction to be a choice or a result of moral weakness instead of what it really is: a chronic illness. But even beyond the stigma, there is a problem for those seeking support and treatment. The lack of accessibility to treatment facilities and services is a massive concern, especially considering the rising number of individuals seeking treatment.
Especially concerning for IU is the fact that substance use disorders may be compromising the futures—and the very lives—of Indiana’s youth. Addiction in college students is widespread. Approximately one in 10 Hoosiers between 18 and 25 reported recreationally using prescription pain medication within the past year. One in 20 youths between the ages of 12 and 17 said the same.
Indiana University’s Solution to Student Drug Addiction
Addiction in college students is a worrisome trend for IU administrators. Faced with what to do when dealing with a college student with drug addiction, the school knew it had to find ways to help. That’s why Indiana University has implemented several policies and procedures to help their students manage and overcome substance use disorders.
The school compiled a comprehensive list of alcohol and drug resources for all their different campuses. These resources include counseling, employee assistance programs, health centers, and more. These resources can be found both on and off-campus and are available for use by students and employees alike.
Addiction counselors offer a safe, judgment-free space and are trained to treat addictions in college students. But for those who need more than counseling, outside resources, like those offered at Landmark Recovery, are also available. If you are a college student in need, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. There is no shame in asking, and you don’t have to struggle alone.
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