The statistics of alcohol abuse in college are staggering.
Many students arrive with past drinking experience. The new-found freedom and peer pressure magnify the natural experimentation of youth. Substance abuse of any flavor will affect the individual’s ability to socialize normally and intellectually stunt their path of higher education.
A national survey reveals:
- Upwards of 60% of students (age 18-22) consumed alcohol in the past month
- 2 out of 3 of those students admitted to binge drinking
These statistics are troubling. Binge drinking, the consumption of 4 or more alcoholic beverages in a 2-hour period, is often a sign of addictive behavior. This clearly demonstrates a lack of control and is the catalyst to many on-campus issues. Other than the obvious toll alcohol overuse can have on long-term health of the individual, it can also affect the people in that individual’s life.
Alcohol abuse in college leads to 97,000 cases of sexual assault and more than 695,000 assaults. We know that many times sexual assault is not even reported. Violent crimes are heightened under the influence of alcohol. The most startling statistic is the loss of life due to alcohol on college campuses. More than 1800 deaths are alcohol related.
What can you do?
Open dialog is critical.
Studies show that parents who discuss alcohol and its effects deter their children’s alcohol use. Stay in touch in your child. Look for any signs that behaviors have shifted.
In addition, much of the drinking in college is underage. The early weeks of school for a freshman are critical. They are embarking on a new life, making decisions on their own, and feeling the pressures of their first taste of adulthood. Talk to your children about the consequences of alcohol abuse. Altered decision-making under the influence of alcohol can have a lasting impact.
Find out how their school deals with underage alcohol abuse. Many campuses have recovery options and groups that can help in a time of need. It is important to not only educate your children proactively, but to have a solution in place if the problem occurs.
Are you or a loved one struggling with addiction? Contact the Ranch at Dove Tree today to get started on the road to recovery. 806.307.2003.
References:
Statistics About Sexual Violence. National Sexual Violence Resource Center. Retrieved December, 2016.
Alcohol Alert. National institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Retrieved December, 2016.
Social Context of Drinking and Alcohol Problems Among College Students. U.S. National Library of Medicine. National Institute of Health. Retrieved December, 2016.
