College Students, a Sobering Look

College is a time of learning, growth and enjoying the social atmosphere that thrives on campuses. Most students can balance the mix of academic and social activities, though pressure to participate in binge drinking, drinking large quantities of alcohol most nights during the week, and drinking to feel like the part of the crowd are common occurrences.

Students of legal age who consume alcohol should do so responsibly and in moderation. Unfortunately, many students engage in underage and/or risky drinking that could lead to long term alcohol problems. These patterns include binge drinking and heavy drinking on a regular basis.

Data from several national surveys indicate that about four in five college students drink and that about half of college student drinkers engage in heavy episodic consumption. The health and social effects of alcohol misuse can be extremely serious and even life threatening both to the individual and to others.

Most students do not connect alcohol abuse with a potential mental health issue. If a student feels that alcohol has become a problem, it is important seek care so they can have a healthy mind and lead a healthy life.