Reasons for Utilizing Mental Health Services as Predictors of College Students' Alcohol Risk

J Coll Couns. 2018 Jul;21(2):125-138. doi: 10.1002/jocc.12092. Epub 2018 Jul 7.

Abstract

The authors examined college student drinkers' (N = 153) reasons for seeking counseling services and risk for alcohol problems. Students seeking help for impulse- or anger-related issues and depression were at heightened risk for alcohol problems. Only 10% of students sought alcohol-related help despite high rates of hazardous alcohol use (80%) and dependence (39%). Targeted screening and intervention in college counseling centers may enable providers to effectively identify and treat students in need of alcohol treatment.

Keywords: alcohol; college; comorbidity; mental health; screening.