The Connection Between High-Risk Drinking and Student Mental Health

(RealClearEducation) The nation’s colleges and universities have doubled down in recent years on their efforts to address the mental health crisis among their students.

The latest Healthy Minds Study paints a troubling picture of mental health and related issues among college students. Nearly 40% of college students show moderate to severe symptoms of depression, while one in three have symptoms of moderate to severe anxiety. As more than a third of college students sought mental health counseling within the past year, increased demand for mental health services continues to put an even greater strain on already overwhelmed campus counseling centers.

Sound student mental health demands that colleges and universities take meaningful action. Yet another pervasive student health issue remains troublesome: drinking, which was the focus of many college students during recent spring breaks. Although alcohol consumption and binge drinking among young people have been on a steady decline since the 1970s, nearly one-third of college students still partake in the risky practice of quickly downing multiple alcoholic drinks. Half of students also report that they regularly pre-game by consuming alcohol before going to parties and other social events.

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