Life as a student is often one of excess, experimentation and exploration. It’s socialising non-stop and finding a balance between that part of life and studies can be difficult, with often people siding with the former and their university performance suffering as a result.
It’s a period that can also be rife with stress, various pressures and the risk of excess, experimentation and exploration tipping over the edge.
Go to rehab for alcoholics and you’ll find that many patients can trace the extent of their problems to their younger days and time at university. It’s a far cry from the “you’re only young once” attitude that can often be the downfall of so many.
Alcohol problems can affect anyone, of any age, and we often ignore the fact that many students can develop problematic drinking habits during a period where they’re often living independently and looking after themselves for the very first time.
So, yes, students can be alcoholics to answer the title of this piece’s question, and here is why care is needed around the subject and those it applies to…
Understanding Alcoholism Among Students
Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, is characterised by an inability to control drinking despite the negative consequences it brings. It can manifest in various ways, including a strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, and the development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. Students are not immune to these issues; in fact, various factors can contribute to the risk of developing alcohol problems during university years.
The pressure to fit in, the excitement of newfound independence, and the availability of alcohol can all create an environment where excessive drinking becomes normalised. For some students, what starts as a social activity can quickly escalate into problematic drinking as they seek to cope with academic stress, emotional challenges, or personal issues. The stigma surrounding mental health and addiction often prevents students from seeking help, further exacerbating the problem.
Signs of Alcoholism in Students
Recognising the signs of alcohol misuse is critical in addressing the issue before it escalates into full-blown alcoholism. Some common indicators that a student may be struggling with alcohol include:
- Frequent Absences: Regularly missing classes or failing to meet academic responsibilities due to drinking or hangovers.
- Changes in Behaviour: Notable shifts in personality, such as increased irritability, mood swings, or social withdrawal.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Losing interest in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable, or failing to maintain relationships.
- Physical Symptoms: Experiencing health issues like weight changes, fatigue, or poor hygiene that can result from excessive drinking.
- Legal or Financial Problems: Getting into trouble with the law, such as public intoxication or DUI charges, or accumulating debt due to spending on alcohol.
If a student exhibits these behaviours, it’s vital to approach the situation with empathy and understanding rather than judgement.
Why Care is Needed
If you see a friend or classmate drinking too much, it is worth reaching out to them and checking in as it can have a huge impact on many areas of their lives. This can not only have an immediate impact on them, but also the rest of their lives too, from their career to health to even relationships.
Impact on Academic Performance
Alcohol misuse can severely affect a student’s ability to perform academically. Poor concentration, memory issues, and increased absenteeism can lead to a decline in grades and potential academic probation or expulsion.
Long-term Health Consequences
Developing a drinking problem in university can lead to long-term health issues, including liver disease, heart problems, and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Early intervention can mitigate these risks and promote healthier lifestyles.
Emotional and Mental Well-being
Students often face high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Excessive alcohol consumption can worsen these feelings, creating a vicious cycle. Supporting students in addressing their emotional health can reduce the risk of alcohol misuse and promote overall well-being.
Creating a Supportive Culture
By recognising and addressing alcoholism among students, universities can foster a culture that prioritises health and well-being. Initiatives such as awareness campaigns, support groups, and accessible counselling services can encourage students to seek help and create an environment where discussing mental health and addiction is normalised.
Building Lifelong Coping Strategies
Addressing alcohol misuse early allows students to learn healthier coping mechanisms for stress and emotional challenges. By providing them with tools to manage their emotions and navigate life’s pressures, universities can help students build resilience that extends beyond their academic years.
Alcoholism can have a huge impact on people at university. In fact, it’s where many people who do struggle with the substance later in life start to develop problematic behaviours. While Gen Z are getting much better at understanding the risks of alcohol, it’s still a big problem amongst student life and something the likes of parents, teachers and students themselves should be conscious of.
