According to a study from the National Union of Students, 2 in 5 students admit to having used drugs.
University is for many a new sense of freedom; of new experiences. University culture is often one that stereotypically glorifies drinking and drug use.
Campus life is full of pressures not only from studies but also from peers. Often this combination of drugs, drink and stresses of everyday life can negatively affect a students’ mental health.
According to research, people who suffer from mental health issues and substance abuse are more likely to experience chronic symptoms, such as respiratory impairments, or cardiovascular problems. These symptoms are not limited to physical health, but also mental, potentially resulting in exacerbation of depression, anxiety, memory loss (HelpGuide, 2020).
Speak, do not fight alone!
HOW CAN DRUGS AND ALCOHOL INFLUENCE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH?
People who regularly consume alcohol and certain drugs (both illicit and not-E.G. gabapentinoids, benzodiazepines, z-drugs, antidepressants and opioids (Public Health England, 2020), may experience the following symptoms:
- Withdrawal symptoms (feeling sick: nausea and vomiting, sweaty, shaky)
- Severe dependence
- Sudden mood disorders
- Lack of motivation
- Lack of skills generally in daily life (e.g. work, school).
- Problematic social relationships
- Aggressive and criminal behavior
- Hallucinations, depression and psychosis
- Impairment of critical thinking and memory loss
- Suicidal behavior
(Rethink Mental Illness, 2020)