It's no secret, sex, drugs, and parties are considered to be a big part of the "college experience" for some students. People have probably found ourselves at a frat party, surrounded by kegs and jungle juice, and we probably didn't think twice about having a drink or two...or three. However, alcohol is the drug most used and abused by college students. Unfortunately, most people don't think of those abusing alcohol because they're just "having a good time". Although it's when this "good time" starts to become a part of a person's way of life that the problem starts. Often times, students don't believe that there's anything wrong, especially when there's so many people around doing the same thing.
Why are college students drinking so much?
According to the National Institute of Health, about four out of five college students drink alcohol, while half of these drinkers do so through binge drinking. There're countless reasons college students are drinking but you can't deny that, in a way, going to parties and drinking in college is basically a normality for some. It's just something that is done to help de-stress after a long week of classes. But should we really be encouraging unhealthy habits and promoting an unhealthy normality?
Is it that much of an issue?
The answer is yes. Over 1,800 students die each year due to drinking related incidents while almost 600,000 become injured. Along with the physical effects, students who become dependent on alcohol or other substances start to fall behind in school by missing classes and not completing coursework. However, those drinking aren't the only ones affected. Thousands of students reported being assaulted or sexually abused by someone who was under the influence of alcohol.
How to get help
People don't like to admit that they have a problem. It isn't always easy but if you suspect that someone you know has an alcohol dependence then there are ways you can help them. Many colleges offer counseling centers where students can receive confidential help. If you're helping someone fight addiction, the best thing you can do is support them while they set goals, get treatment, and begin a new, sober lifestyle.
It's time for students to start knowing the facts, making safe choices, and getting each other help. If you suspect that you or someone you know has an alcohol dependency, don't be afraid to speak up and seek help. While it may be difficult, it's our responsibility to hold our peers responsible and make the right choices for everyone's health and safety.
