Substance use among university students remains a pressing global concern, particularly in lower middle-income countries where young people face unique challenges. This demographic, primarily aged 18 to 25 years, is at an increased risk due to the crucial transitional period of moving into adulthood. Alarmingly, the prevalence of drug use among university students is worryingly high, with studies reporting up to 68.9% lifetime use in some regions.
The Substances at the Heart of the Problem
The most commonly used substances among students include alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and khat. Alcohol consistently emerges as the most consumed drug due to its widespread accessibility and social acceptance. However, marijuana use is also notably prevalent, particularly in regions like North America, while khat features prominently in some African and Middle Eastern countries. The issue of polydrug use, where multiple substances are consumed either concurrently or simultaneously, poses an even greater danger, with combinations like alcohol, cannabis, and tobacco being common.
What Drives Substance Use?
Several factors predict drug use in university populations. Social and environmental influences, such as peer pressure and party culture, play a significant role. Students living off-campus are at a higher risk, as they often have easier access to substances. Socioeconomic conditions also matter—moderate income levels have been linked to higher drug use compared to very low or high incomes. Additionally, being a later-born child, progressing through higher years of study, and engaging in behaviours like having multiple sexual partners further increase vulnerabilities.
The University’s Role in Prevention
Universities are uniquely positioned to address this growing crisis. Evidence suggests that students living in university hostels are less likely to use drugs compared to those living off-campus. This calls for an increased emphasis on expanding on-campus accommodation to create secure and supervised environments for students. Such measures can mitigate the risks posed by unsupervised living arrangements outside university premises, where drug access is often easier.
Policymakers Must Act
Policymakers have a responsibility to support prevention strategies that address the root causes of substance use in universities. This includes fostering environments that limit exposure to drugs and alcohol and strengthening policies that prioritise student welfare. Protecting young people during this formative stage of life is critical in ensuring they make healthier choices for their future.
The Challenges Ahead, and the Way Forward
The findings of this study highlight the significant dangers posed by drug use among university students, both in terms of individual health and its broader societal impact. Alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and khat remain widely consumed substances, emphasising the urgency of this issue. Whether through campus policy reforms, community engagement, or stricter control measures, everyone has a role to play in addressing this crisis.
The time to act is now, and universities and policymakers must work together to create safer, drug-free environments. Addressing substance use in universities requires creating supportive environments that encourage healthy decision-making. By focusing on prevention, we can protect the health and well-being of our future generations while laying the groundwork for stronger, healthier communities.
Source: Academia
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