The University of California Student Association is pushing for collegiate recovery programs at all UC campuses to support students dealing with addiction. Currently, these programs are available at about half of the UC campuses.

Addiction on Campuses Across the US

The University of California is not alone when it comes to addiction and substance use.

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a significant concern on college campuses, with a notable percentage of students affected. Recent studies by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) reveal that approximately 30% of college students engage in binge drinking, a behavior closely linked to alcohol use disorder. It also reports that nearly 20% of college students meet the criteria for AUD, reflecting the high prevalence of problematic drinking among this demographic. A combination of social pressures, a “party atmosphere” on campuses, and the stress of academic and personal challenges often fuel this high rate of alcohol use.

Beyond alcohol, college students also face issues with other forms of addiction. Substance use disorders, including those involving drugs like cannabis, stimulants, and opioids, are increasingly prevalent among young adults. Fentanyl is commonplace among younger opioid users, creating a hazard of overdose on many campuses.

The pressures of academic life, coupled with the transitional phase of emerging adulthood, contribute to substance use. The stress of maintaining high academic performance, coupled with the social environment of college life, often exacerbates the risk of developing addiction issues. However, times are changing, and more students are getting help than ever, so there is always hope for recovery.

Programs are available, and Medication-Assisted Treatment is becoming more available across the country.

Changing Lives, Helping Students Stay Sober

Cheech Raygoza, sober for four years and a UC Berkeley student since 2022, found a supportive community through Berkeley’s recovery program offered at several UC campuses.

The Student Association, representing over 230,000 students, advocates for full-time coordinators and dedicated spaces for these programs. They believe these programs are crucial for providing targeted support beyond general drug prevention services.

Since their inception at Brown University in 1977, collegiate recovery programs have provided peer support, counseling, and social activities, helping students manage their recovery without requiring complete abstinence from all substances.

The Importance of Recovery On-Campus Programs

Raygoza, now a part-time student facilitator, attributes his academic and sobriety success to the recovery program. UC officials report these programs reached about 4,000 students last year, with many more in need.

Advocates like Stephanie Lake from UC Davis stress the importance of full-time staff and dedicated spaces for these programs. Lake highlights the difficulties of managing the program part-time and the need for dedicated recovery spaces.

The Push for More Support on University of California Campuses

Student advocates emphasize the need for stable university funding and dedicated spaces for recovery programs, warning against reliance on temporary county grants.

The UC Office of the President is exploring additional funding options and acknowledges the challenge of balancing budget priorities. Dedicated recovery spaces offer a critical refuge for students and help prevent relapse.

Students are better off when recovery tools are available, and it’s simple and free to set up many resources on campus, such as space for 12-step recovery meetings, peer support, and other types of recovery initiatives.