The #5 mental health problem? Addictive behaviors. Partying and engaging in alcohol and
drug use has become commonplace on many college campuses. But what often starts
as a social behavior can escalate into addiction. Think of an additive behavior
as a dependency on and repeated abuse of something. People tend to think of
addiction primarily in terms of drugs and alcohol but it can include food,
gambling, sex, and almost anything that gives the brain a reward (even
over-exercising). In terms of alcohol, The National
Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) reports that:
- About 80%
of college students drink
- About 50%
of those are binge drinkers
- 1,825
students, ages 18 to 24, die from alcohol-related injuries annually
- Students
are more likely to be assaulted, sexually abused or injured by someone
who’s been drinking
- About 25% of students who drink regularly report academic problems
- Do you
feel uncomfortable when drugs or alcohol are not available?
- Do you
drink heavily when you are disappointed, distressed or get in a fight?
- Have you
ever been unable to remember part of the previous evening, even though
your friends say you did not pass out?
- Has a
friend or family member expressed concern about your alcohol or drug use?
- Have any
of your blood relatives had an addiction to drugs or alcohol?
- Do you
sometimes want to continue your drug and alcohol use when you’re by
yourself?
If you answered 'yes' to any of these
questions or think you might have an addictive behavior related to something else, contact your student health care center today and find out what your
options for treatment are on campus. Following are additional resources:
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