Substance Use in Education: Addiction Resources for Higher Education
College students constitute one of the largest groups of drug and alcohol abusers, and people ages 18 to 24 are at a higher risk of developing an addiction than other age groups. Full-time college students are about two times as likely to abuse alcohol and drugs than their peer who is not pursuing a degree. It’s imperative to consider higher education addiction resources to help combat substance abuse among college students
Substance Use in Education: Addiction Resources for Higher Education
College students constitute one of the largest groups of drug and alcohol abusers, and people ages 18 to 24 are at a higher risk of developing an addiction than other age groups. Full-time college students are about two times as likely to abuse alcohol and drugs than their peer who is not pursuing a degree. It’s imperative to consider higher education addiction resources to help combat substance abuse among college students
The Scale of the Problem
37.5% of college males drink heavily
33.3% of college females drink heavily
3.7% of college males drink daily
20 percent of college students meet the criteria for having an alcohol use disorder
About 2,000 college students die each year from accidental alcohol-related injuries
College Alcoholism affects millions of students every year and their families. Alcohol consumption and binge drinking have become part of the college experience. About 80% of college students drink alcohol, and half of those admit binge drinking or consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period of time.
However, many teens begin drinking alcohol well before they move into the dorms. The freedom from being under the watchful eye of parents can be exhilarating, but it can also come with risks and sometimes severe consequences. One of the key drivers of alcohol consumption in College is its availability. Parties, bars, the ever-present tailgates before the weekend football game and having friends and classmates over the age of 21 make obtaining alcohol easy. What may innocently start as one beer can quickly escalate into a round of beer pong or flip-cup. Innocuous drinking can soon lead to binge drinking and increased tolerance to alcohol, leading to larger quantities.
Bring drinking increases the odds of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD). AUD can result in severe physical and emotional damage to the afflicted individual. If caught early, the effect may be short-lived. However, some consequences can last for years or inflict permanent damage. Educators, advisors, university staff, and family and friends need to be able to identify the warning signs of AUD and make a critical early intervention.
AspenRidge’s licensed clinicians and admissions specialists care trained to provide resources, top-notch care and assistance to professionals and individuals in need of treatment. Further information for treatment programs can be found on our website or by giving AspenRidge Recovery Centers a call directly 24/7 is also available by phone at (855) 281-5588.
Alcohol Use Among College Students
College Alcoholism affects millions of students every year and their families. Alcohol consumption and binge drinking have become part of the college experience. About 80% of college students drink alcohol, and half of those admit binge drinking or consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period of time.
However, many teens begin drinking alcohol well before they move into the dorms. The freedom from being under the watchful eye of parents can be exhilarating, but it can also come with risks and sometimes severe consequences. One of the key drivers of alcohol consumption in College is its availability. Parties, bars, the ever-present tailgates before the weekend football game and having friends and classmates over the age of 21 make obtaining alcohol easy. What may innocently start as one beer can quickly escalate into a round of beer pong or flip-cup. Innocuous drinking can soon lead to binge drinking and increased tolerance to alcohol, leading to larger quantities.
Bring drinking increases the odds of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD). AUD can result in severe physical and emotional damage to the afflicted individual. If caught early, the effect may be short-lived. However, some consequences can last for years or inflict permanent damage. Educators, advisors, university staff, and family and friends need to be able to identify the warning signs of AUD and make a critical early intervention.
AspenRidge’s licensed clinicians and admissions specialists care trained to provide resources, top-notch care and assistance to professionals and individuals in need of treatment. Further information for treatment programs can be found on our website or by giving AspenRidge Recovery Centers a call directly 24/7 is also available by phone at (855) 281-5588.
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Recognizing Warning Signs of Substance Use and Addiction in College Students
How can you tell when a student is abusing drugs or alcohol? Substance abuse will often come with behavioral changes that are easy to detect if you’re paying attention. If you notice someone is displaying one or all the following signs, you may want to stage an intervention or at least alert someone who can help. There are online tests that can help determine if a student has gone too far with substance abuse.
Recognizing Warning Signs of Substance Use and Addiction in College Students
How can you tell when a student is abusing drugs or alcohol? Substance abuse will often come with behavioral changes that are easy to detect if you’re paying attention. If you notice someone is displaying one or all the following signs, you may want to stage an intervention or at least alert someone who can help. There are online tests that can help determine if a student has gone too far with substance abuse.
Potential Warning Signs:
Deteriorating grades
Change in appearance
Criminal charges such as DUI, DWAI, physical or sexual assault
Decreased Interest in Extracurricular College Activities
Uncharacteristic mood swings
Shifts in sleeping patterns
Potential Warning Signs:
Deteriorating grades
Change in appearance
Criminal charges such as DUI, DWAI, physical or sexual assault
Decreased Interest in Extracurricular College Activities
Uncharacteristic mood swings
Shifts in sleeping patterns
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our clients have ample resources for effective substance abuse treatment that addresses their individual needs. To learn more about our LGBTQ-specific addiction treatment center, contact us today.
Substance Abuse in College Students Can Cause Behavioral Changes
A student may start inhibiting certain behaviors that will indicate they’re abusing substances. As they continue to use, the brain forces further changes in behavior. Couple this with someone who is under the influence of, and their behavior can become erratic. Here are some of the following behaviors that indicate substance abuse. The more you notice these things from someone, the more likely they need help with addiction.
Acts of emotional, physical, and verbal abuse
Neglectful of property and people
Provoking fights or assaulting other people
Illogical thinking
Drunk driving charges
Unsafe sexual practices
They may commit or be the victim of sexual assault
Risking their safety and others around them
Blackout periods with no memory
Drug and alcohol abuse on college campuses has been a problem for decades. They create addiction in the early stages of adult life, and without help, they could lead to long-term problems. It’s essential to pay attention to the patterns and behaviors of students. If it goes too far, they may lose sight of their hopes and dreams. They risk consequences related to not attending classes or a falling GPA. This could lead to expulsion, and hey may also face legal trouble. When substance abuse takes over someone’s life, they stop caring about their studies.
Substance Abuse in College Students Can Cause Behavioral Changes
A student may start inhibiting certain behaviors that will indicate they’re abusing substances. As they continue to use, the brain forces further changes in behavior. Couple this with someone who is under the influence of, and their behavior can become erratic. Here are some of the following behaviors that indicate substance abuse. The more you notice these things from someone, the more likely they need help with addiction.
Acts of emotional, physical, and verbal abuse
Neglectful of property and people
Provoking fights or assaulting other people
Illogical thinking
Drunk driving charges
Unsafe sexual practices
They may commit or be the victim of sexual assault
Risking their safety and others around them
Blackout periods with no memory
Drug and alcohol abuse on college campuses has been a problem for decades. They create addiction in the early stages of adult life, and without help, they could lead to long-term problems. It’s essential to pay attention to the patterns and behaviors of students. If it goes too far, they may lose sight of their hopes and dreams. They risk consequences related to not attending classes or a falling GPA. This could lead to expulsion, and hey may also face legal trouble. When substance abuse takes over someone’s life, they stop caring about their studies.
The Reasons Behind Increased Drug and Alcohol use in College
Various reasons can cause college students to seek relief or escape. Several issues can cause high rates of drug use among college students. As students face the high demands of college-level work, internships, and jobs, they may turn to drugs and alcohol as a form of relief. The switch from high school homework to tenured professors’ demands may also add a layer of pressure and stress. Adderall and other stimulants are often used and abused by tired and overworked students to help squeeze a few more hours of study time out of the day. These prescription drugs are usually prescribed for ADHD—not as a study aid—and obtained without a prescription.
The Reasons Behind Increased Drug and Alcohol use in College
Various reasons can cause college students to seek relief or escape. Several issues can cause high rates of drug use among college students. As students face the high demands of college-level work, internships, and jobs, they may turn to drugs and alcohol as a form of relief. The switch from high school homework to tenured professors’ demands may also add a layer of pressure and stress. Adderall and other stimulants are often used and abused by tired and overworked students to help squeeze a few more hours of study time out of the day. These prescription drugs are usually prescribed for ADHD—not as a study aid—and obtained without a prescription.
Peer Pressure Among College Students
Curiosity and peer pressure are also common reasons for experimentation in college students. University campuses are a mix of people with diverse upbringings and histories with substances. It is common for students to mingle with others who are curious about specific drugs. When these peer groups collide, its members become more likely to engage in experimentation.
Drugs of Choice (DOC) on College Campuses
The popularity of drugs ebbs and flows like other trends. The list below contains drugs that are generally considered to be easily accessible on college campuses. However, all drugs can be and are used by college students.
Alcohol
Alcohol is the most used and misused substance on college campuses. Since it is considered normal to consume and a part of the culture, it’s responsible for the vast majority of substance-related issues at universities.
Adderall
Adderall, Ritalin, and other prescription stimulants have risen in popularity in the past two decades. The drug is often acquired without a valid medical reason or legitimate prescription.
Cannabis
The switch from high school homework to tenured professors’ demands may also add a layer of pressure and stress. Eleven states and the District of Columbia (as of July 2020) have legalized recreational use of marijuana, and 33 allow its use for various medical conditions. These factors make the drug even more readily obtainable by minors.
Prescription Drugs
Although legally obtainable, prescription drugs have become commonplace on college campuses. Opioids such as OxyContin, Vicodin, and the incredibly powerful fentanyl are often overprescribed for longer than necessary durations. These factors, along with general curiosity about mood-altering substance among college students, creates an environment ripe for misuse. Opiates quickly build a tolerance in the body, and users need increasingly higher levels of the drug to produce the same effects. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, many heroin users began using prescription pain pills. As a result of tolerance and the high cost of acquiring these drugs on the black market, addicts often turn their much cheaper cousin heroin to replace prescription narcotics.
You can stop the cycle of substance abuse if you’re a friend or faculty member. There are many ways you can help someone who seems to be going down the wrong path. The first step will be to pay attention to the signs. If substance abuse does lead to addiction in a student, they may need to attend a treatment program. The college years should enhance a person’s life so they can move on to a fulfilling future.
Treatment at AspenRidge Recovery
AspenRidge Recovery has experience treating adults from all socioeconomic and employment backgrounds. We also offer a host of programs to serve individuals with vastly different needs. Such services at AspenRidge include several options of which are listed below.
Finding Help for Addiction
You can stop the cycle of substance abuse if you’re a friend or faculty member. There are many ways you can help someone who seems to be going down the wrong path. The first step will be to pay attention to the signs. If substance abuse does lead to addiction in a student, they may need to attend a treatment program. The college years should enhance a person’s life so they can move on to a fulfilling future.
Treatment at AspenRidge Recovery
AspenRidge Recovery has experience treating adults from all socioeconomic and employment backgrounds. We also offer a host of programs to serve individuals with vastly different needs. Such services at AspenRidge include several options of which are listed below.
Our Programs
PHP Day Program
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
Day IOP
Professional IOP
Community IOP
Virtual IOP
Outpatient Treatment Program
Our Programs
PHP Day Program
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
Day IOP
Professional IOP
Community IOP
Virtual IOP
Outpatient Treatment Program
Learn more about how our AspenRidge Recovery program works
Our passion is to help make sobriety an integral part of daily life. We can help develop coping skills during one or more of our addiction therapy programs. These therapy programs may include:
These therapy options can be part of individualized treatment. As part of our addiction treatment programs, we also offer dual diagnosis treatment in our community intensive outpatient program. Mental illness and addiction often appear together. Sometimes addiction causes mental illness. Other times mental illness causes addiction. In both cases, it is critical to get treatment for both disorders at the same time. That is where a dual diagnosis program can be helpful. Dual diagnosis programs allow us to treat these problems simultaneously for those who suffer from both an addiction and a mental illness.
Collegiate Recovery Programs
Many colleges and universities across the United States have rolled out Collegiate Recovery Programs to assist students in recovery. According to the Association of Recovery in Higher Education’s (ARHE) website, “Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRP) is a College or University-provided, supportive environment within the campus culture that reinforces the decision to engage in a lifestyle of recovery from substance use. It is designed to provide an educational opportunity alongside recovery support to ensure that students do not have to sacrifice one for the other.”
Statistics on CRPs
92% of students who are involved in a Collegiate Recovery Program maintain their recovery.
The average length of recovery for CRC member is 16 months
Collegiate Recovery Programs are a great way to assist students on your campus and create a community of recovering young people. For more information and assistance in starting a program at your institution, please visit the Association of Recovery in Higher Education’s (ARHE) website. The organization can assist you in setting up and implementing a program on your campus.
Originally from Boca Raton, Florida, Danny moved to Denver to study at the University of Colorado and earned a master’s degree in counseling. Danny spent the first nine years of his career working in youth residential treatment. After managing that program for six years, Danny moved to AspenRidge and now leads the clinical team.
Danny specializes in brainspotting and reality therapy. He describes his area of expertise as treating substance use disorders, compulsive behaviors, and co-occurring mood disorders such as depression and anxiety that may travel with a substance use disorder. Danny has extensive experience in effectively treating incidental and complex trauma. He further describes his approach as science-driven, constantly reviewing the latest literature and theory. Danny ensures he has as many techniques as possible to help people improve their well-being and achieve their goals. Outside of work, he divides his time between family, basketball, and rock climbing. If Danny won the lottery, he’d start a tech company focusing on deep learning to support people in coping strategies. And, you know, keep working here.
CHANEL NYE
Originally from Chino Hills, California, Chanel began her education at Gonzaga University, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Philosophy. She continued her education at the University of Denver and earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling. Chanel completed internships at AspenRidge during her studies and eventually joined the team as a full-time primary clinician.
Chanel describes herself as a humanistic therapist focused on building rapport and trust. She knows that when both of those are realized, they can accomplish each client’s unique goals together. She specializes in mood and personality disorders as they relate to addiction and is passionate about healing trauma by way of brainspotting and other trauma therapy methods. She has a goal to visit every state capitol and has been to 29 so far! If she won the lottery tomorrow, Chanel said she start a bookstore with a bakery inside for guests to enjoy their favorite books with an excellent coffee and dessert.
KARLIE ROSHONG – Clinical Manager
Karlie is originally from Dayton, Ohio, and began her education in psychology at the University of Cincinnati. She participated in research studying ADHD in children, mindfulness and anxiety, and embodied cognition. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she continued her education at the University of Denver and earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling with a side specialization in addiction. During grad school, she treated clients involved in the legal system as well as at a detox facility. After graduating, Karlie gained experience working in a residential program for eating disorders and a private practice before joining the AspenRidge team.
In her time here, Karlie trained as a clinical supervisor and an Acudetox therapist. She has a passion for working with clients to help them develop a more profound sense of identity to navigate depressive and anxious symptoms. She’s passionate about working with clients to work through trauma and improve mental stability. In her personal life, Karlie likes reading sci-fi and fantasy and going to Marvel movies. She enjoys playing board games and having home karaoke nights with her friends. Karlie says the best advice ever received is to not fall in love with potential. Fall in love with what is, then work to grow from there.
JILL GODING
Jill is a Colorado native who received a master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis on women’s studies from the University of Houston. Jill has worked in several inpatient and outpatient centers, treating clients in all levels of care in both individual and group settings.
She is a trauma-informed clinician who prioritizes the relationship between clinician and client. Addiction impacted her own family and influenced her compassionate and empathetic relationship with clients. She believes in healing the whole person in a safe and supportive environment. Jill enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, friends, and pets when she is not in the office. She spends most weekends in the mountains hiking, fishing, 4-wheeling, and camping. Jill is an avid photographer and particularly enjoys Colorado sunsets. If she won the lottery tomorrow, Jill would create a pet sanctuary where the community would unite. And, you know, keep working here.
COURTNEY SKILLMAN
Hailing from Boulder County, Courtney embarked on her academic journey by earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She furthered her education by completing a master’s of science in clinical mental health counseling from Capella University. Additionally, Courtney obtained certificates in Alcohol and Drug Studies and is certified in Branspotting, a clinical treatment technique aiding individuals in processing trauma.
Courtney’s professional experience in substance use treatment began in a holistic residential treatment center. Since then, she has worked across various settings including outpatient, inpatient, and community corrections programs.
Describing her therapeutic approach as evidence-based, Courtney champions a humanistic or person-centered approach as the ideal foundation. She integrates her expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based practices to tailor interventions according to each client’s distinct needs.
Beyond her clinical practice at AspenRidge, Courtney finds solace in outdoor activities, sports, reading, and cherishing quality time with her family and beloved dog.
JUSTIN GREEN – Primary Clinician
Justin was born and raised in Fort Collins, Colorado, where he began his clinical education at Colorado State University. He received his bachelor’s in health and exercise science with a concentration in sports medicine and eventually earned a master’s of psychology in addiction counseling. During his time as a therapist, Justin has worked in a residential addiction treatment facility, private practice, and outpatient settings.
Justin’s goal as a clinician is to help clients rediscover their own sense of agency over their lives. He knows therapy is a sacred process, and treatment is rarely as simple as finding the solution to one’s problems. Justin meets clients where they are and aims to help people learn to cultivate self-compassion, presence, and curiosity toward their pain. When he is not working with clients at AspenRidge, Justin plays basketball and disc golf, noodles on the guitar, and spends time with his wife and family. Justin says if he invented a holiday, it would definitely involve cookies, ice cream, and all sorts of sweet things.
BRIONNA MOORE – Primary Clinician
Originally from Southern California and later the Hudson Valley area of New York, Brionna pursued her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the State University of New York at Oswego and completed her master’s in addiction counseling at Colorado State University.
Specializing in Compulsive Hoarding and Behavior Addictions, Brionna guides clients towards healthier relationships and boundaries. Additionally, she is trained in Brainspotting, offering a unique approach to trauma-informed care. Brionna’s therapeutic approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), empowering clients to challenge negative thinking patterns and manage intense emotions through mindfulness practices.
Outside of work, Brionna finds solace in arts and crafts, particularly crocheting and creative writing. She cherishes quiet moments with a good book, her two beloved cats, and the tranquility of nature’s walking trails.
KATHLEEN MORGAN
Kathleen was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, but spent half of her life in California. She holds a master’s in clinical psychology with an emphasis on marriage and family therapy. Additionally, she has a master’s in holistic wellness and is trained in EMDR therapy for both in-person and virtual settings. Kathleen has more than 15 years of experience treating people who have a substance use disorder.
She typically works with people interested in taking a holistic approach to treating their addictions. This will include healthy eating, movement, meditation, mindfulness and spirituality. Outside of work, she’s a devotee of Krishna, and her friends call her Karunya Shakti, which means compassionate energy. She enjoys singing and dancing in kirtan and reading ancient Vedic literature like the Bhagavad Gita and the Srimad Bhagavatam. If she weren’t so damn good at her job, she says she would probably be an electrical engineer.
MEGAN K
A Denver native and lifelong Colorado resident, Megan embarked on her academic journey at the University of Northern Colorado. There, she earned dual bachelor’s degrees before pursuing a master’s degree in psychology. During her academic years, she dedicated herself to assisting refugees fleeing war and violence in their home countries.
Megan’s therapeutic approach is multifaceted, drawing from narrative, feminist, and existential therapy modalities. By employing these frameworks, Megan empowers her clients to confront their realities and comprehend the tangible impact of systemic factors on their lives.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Megan finds joy in the company of her partner and pets. She relishes spending time with friends, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and exploring the great outdoors during milder weather.
CHRISTY SCHUETT
Christy Schuett, originally from Aberdeen, South Dakota, holds a master’s degree in counseling from Northern State University. Her journey began with crisis intervention for families, evolving into roles in community counseling, corrections, and residential facilities. Christy’s worked inthe field for more than 30 years.
Specializing in diverse mental health challenges, including depression, addiction, and trauma, Christy embraces a person-centered approach. She tailors interventions to individual needs, drawing from modalities like mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR.
Outside of work, Christy finds solace in nature, enjoying activities like gardening and mountain biking, alongside cherished moments with her family and dogs. If she weren’t excelling in her current role, Christy would likely champion environmental activism, advocating for nature’s preservation.
DARCIE O’CONNOR
Originally from Center Point, Iowa, Darcie pursued her academic journey at Walden University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She then relocated to Alamosa, Colorado, where she obtained a master’s degree from Adams State University.
Describing her approach as eclectic, Darcie seamlessly combines person-centered and evidence-based practices. Drawing from her background in local improv groups, she infuses sessions with laughter and humor, fostering a non-judgmental space for clients. Darcie believes in collaborating with her clients, tailoring interventions to suit their individual needs.
Her expertise encompasses group and individual work, with a particular focus on trauma. Darcie finds fulfillment in working with the LGBTQ+ population, leveraging her skills to support and empower. The best piece of advice she’s ever heard is to never take advice from someone who does not have what you are seeking.
JORDAN ADSIT – Primary Clinician
Originally from Nashville, TN, Jordan moved to Colorado with her family at age five. She has worked in behavioral health since graduating with her bachelor’s degree in 2019. Jordan developed her clinical approach in various inpatient, hospital, outpatient, and private practice settings. Jordan continued her studies and earned a master’s in clinical and mental health counseling. Between post-graduate work and additional training courses, she honed her skills in treating first responders and military personnel from a trauma-informed perspective. In 2023, Jordan joined the clinical team at AspenRidge Recovery. Jordan describes her approach as eclectic but most beneficial and includes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and family-oriented practices.
Outside AspenRidge, Jordan enjoys rock climbing, snowboarding, and playing volleyball and soccer. She believes she was probably a rodeo queen in another life and recharges by spending time with friends and family.