Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope
College students often find themselves pressed for resources. Whether money, time, food, or sleep, college students are typically pressed with limitations in every category and forced to make the most of whatever resources they have. What about the college student who is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol? Resources that are already stretched thin can quickly become drained for the purposes of buying drugs and alcohol that fuel addictive behaviors.
Money is Already Tight
Whatever means by which a college student is purchasing drugs and alcohol, financial resources can quickly be squandered as addiction behaviors continue. This can be detrimental for the college student who is already struggling to make ends meet. A student who is searching for ways to purchase their drug or substance of choice may dip into funds that are needed for other purposes, such as college tuition, books, food and living expenses. Much will become sacrificed to continue in an addiction, and a college student may not realize the seriousness of what is occurring until their resources have been wiped out.
Because addictions often proceed through vicious cycles, professional intervention is needed to stop destructive behaviors. Even in the face of little to no resources, an addict will continue to seek out any ways possible to obtain the substance to which they are addicted. This can cause a college student to lose money for school or end up on the streets due to lack of living expenses. Many college students do not think about these consequences from using drug use, but this is the reality of addiction for many.
If you are a college student who has found yourself with financial difficulty due to an addiction, know that there is help available for you. Getting back on track begins with address the root of the problem and the addiction itself. The answer is not having more money or resources but learning to use the resources you have appropriately. As long as you are under the power of an addiction, your resources will likely be exploited and used inappropriately. Seeking out professional treatment for addiction can help you stop destructive behaviors in their tracks. If you are unsure where to seek out treatment, begin by inquiring with your campus wellness center to find out what might be available for you.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
How do you think recovery from addiction can help a college student improve their financial situation? What resources for addiction treatment might be available to the student who is already struggling with finances?
The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of addictions and co-occurring disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Addiction Hope, but an effort to offer a discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals. We at Addiction Hope understand that addictions result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on September 4, 2015. Published on AddictionHope.com