Prescription drug misuse (PDM) among college students is a deeply concerning issue with serious consequences for their mental health and long-term well-being. The misuse of medications, such as stimulants and pain relievers, not only jeopardises academic achievement but also exacerbates mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. This article explores the relationship between PDM, mental health, and subjective happiness, shedding light on why preventive measures are essential.

Why College Students Are Vulnerable

College is often a time of significant change, marked by increased independence and new social, academic, and financial pressures. Unfortunately, this unique phase in life also brings heightened susceptibility to substance misuse. Studies reveal that PDM behaviours often stem from perceived benefits, such as improving academic performance, coping with stress, or increasing focus. However, these short-term justifications lead to long-term consequences far outweighing any temporary gains.

Stimulant misuse is especially prevalent among college students, who are much more likely than other young adults to misuse such drugs. Alarmingly, the misuse of prescription pain medication among this demographic elevates the risks of engaging in dangerous behaviours and even increases the likelihood of later addiction to illegal substances, such as heroin.

The Links Between PDM and Mental Health

Worsening Mental Health Over Time

Research indicates that PDM problems are often on a steadily worsening trajectory during college. For students engaging in misuse, there is a clear link between this behaviour and declining mental health outcomes. At baseline, higher levels of PDM problems are strongly associated with symptoms of depression, general disinhibition, and aggression. Furthermore, as misuse worsens over time, so do these psychological problems.

For example, students who exhibit increased issues with PDM often experience significant rises in depressive symptoms over a two-year period. This depressive state can become entrenched, creating a harmful cycle between misuse and negative emotional states. These trends are troubling, especially given the critical importance of good mental health for navigating both academic and personal challenges.

Reduced Happiness and Well-Being

Subjective happiness and overall well-being are also significantly impacted by PDM. College students grappling with misuse report lower levels of contentment, motivation, and life satisfaction. These declines reflect the wider-reaching effects of misuse beyond academic performance, affecting relationships, career ambitions, and quality of life.

Happiness is an essential component of well-being, and its reduction due to substance misuse highlights the urgent need for preventative action. College students’ years should be a foundation for personal growth, but PDM undermines this, replacing growth with harm.

Long-Term Consequences of Prescription Drug Misuse

The longer-term impact of PDM cannot be overstated. Beyond the immediate mental health effects, students who misuse prescription drugs are setting themselves up for challenges that extend far into adulthood. Addiction risks increase considerably, particularly for opioids, and this behaviour often leads to the misuse of other substances.

Additionally, PDM hinders key personal attributes such as impulse control and decision-making abilities. This deterioration results in poor academic and professional outcomes, as well as reduced ability to form and maintain interpersonal relationships. This combination of consequences severely limits future opportunities and can hinder the ability to lead a fulfilling, productive life.

Targeting the Root of the Problem

Why Early Intervention Matters

The period of college is a window of opportunity to address and prevent PDM before problems escalate. Raising awareness about the detrimental effects of misuse — on both physical and mental health — is paramount. By creating substance-free environments and actively promoting healthy coping mechanisms, institutions can reduce risks and foster positive outcomes for their students.

The Importance of Culture

A cultural shift towards rejecting all forms of substance misuse is necessary. This means influencing students to reject the perceived “benefits” of misusing prescription drugs and instead nurturing perseverance, discipline, and focus through healthier lifestyle choices. Strong networks of peers, mentors, and educators are invaluable to helping students make wiser decisions.

PDM among college students is more than an individual challenge—it represents a societal issue with far-reaching implications. By understanding and addressing the links between substance misuse and mental health, we can mitigate its devastating impact and ensure that students are better equipped for success. Action is needed at all levels, from individuals to institutions, to safeguard young adults’ health, happiness, and potential.

Source: Science Direct