Mental Health and Substance Use: Connections and Support
This post discusses mental health challenges and substance use. Please take care while reading. If you need support, call or text the 24/7 SAMHSA Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Let’s Talk About It: Substance Use in College Module Part 4
College life brings new experiences, freedom, and opportunities—but it can also come with stress, loneliness, and mental health challenges. Sometimes, students use substances to cope with these feelings. Understanding the connection between mental health and substance use can help you make choices that support your well-being.
How Mental Health and Substance Use Are Connected
Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma can make it harder to manage stress. Some students use alcohol or drugs to feel better temporarily. This is called self-medicating. But substances usually don’t solve the problem and can make mental health symptoms worse over time.
At the same time, substance use can lead to changes in the brain that affect mood and behavior. This means that substance use and mental health challenges often happen together and can create a cycle that’s hard to break.
Signs It Might Be Time to Get Support
If you or a friend notice any of these, it could be a sign to reach out:
- Feeling sad, anxious, or overwhelmed most days
- Using alcohol or drugs to forget problems or feel “normal”
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities you once enjoyed
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Experiencing trouble concentrating or making decisions
Where to Find Help on Campus
Most colleges have health centers, counseling services, and peer support groups. These resources are confidential and there to support you. You don’t have to face challenges alone.
Some colleges also offer substance use education, harm reduction programs, or connections to local treatment options if needed.
How You Can Support a Friend
Supporting a friend who is struggling can be hard but important. You can:
- Listen without judgment
- Encourage them to get help from a counselor or health professional
- Learn about campus resources together
- Take care of your own well-being while supporting them
Explore More
Coming Up Next
Up next, we will talk about how to keep yourself safe and make healthy choices, including harm reduction tips and where to find ongoing support.
All content on the RTT Virtual Hub is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text the 24/7 SAMHSA Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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